‘Mossad-Style’ Operation Unmasks Naxals Using Secret Trackers and Gadgets

New Delhi: Security forces have carried out a Mossad-style operation against Maoist insurgents, secretly planting trackers in their communication devices, leading to major breakthroughs in ongoing anti-Naxal operations. Recent interrogations of surrendered Naxal leaders, Takalapalli Vasudeva Rao alias Ashanna and Mallojula Venugopal alias Sonu, revealed details of how the insurgents’ secret networks were compromised.

Trackers in Communication Devices
According to reports, electronic devices like walkie-talkies, laptops, mobiles, and other gadgets used by the Maoists were fitted with hidden trackers. Sonu claimed that the organization’s communication network had already been hacked, which led to the elimination of several senior leaders. Following repeated operational leaks, the Dandakaranya communication team reportedly used couriers from Telangana to send essential supplies covertly.

Drone Tests and Electronic Surveillance
The interrogations also revealed that Maoist cadres had experimented with drones for reconnaissance and potential attacks, although they lacked the technology for large-scale drone warfare. Key operatives, including Peoples Liberation Guerrilla Army commander Madavi Hidma and Ashanna, had conducted drone tests. Investigation teams discovered trackers and chips embedded in inverters, printers, walkie-talkies, laptops, chargers, and radios.

Maoist Secrecy and Encryption
Special Zonal Committee members, including Vartha Shekhar, had become adept at detecting trackers. In a bid to maintain secrecy, the Maoists increasingly relied on encrypted email services like ProtonMail. Interrogations also revealed that the party had conducted trial drone runs in South Bastar and maintained ideological ties with international Maoist groups in the Philippines, Turkey, Peru, and Nepal. However, claims of operational links with China, active presence in Nepal, or connections with the Jammu & Kashmir National Students Federation were denied.

International and Ideological Links
Ashanna identified Sonu as the main contact for international ideological exchanges. Telangana police, however, contradicted some of these claims, pointing to Maoist bases seized in Nepal in September 2024. The interrogations provided mixed insights into the organization’s global connections, shedding light on both their operational capabilities and limitations.

Security Forces’ Strategic Advantage
By secretly tracking devices and exploiting communication vulnerabilities, security forces were able to dismantle key Maoist operations and target senior cadres effectively. The operation reflects a high level of planning, akin to tactics used by elite intelligence agencies, and marks a significant step in India’s ongoing fight against Maoist insurgency.