Sukma, July 12 -- Twenty-three Naxalites, carrying a cumulative bounty of Rs 1.18 crore, surrendered in Sukma district on Saturday. The group comprises 14 men and nine women, all identified as hardcore Naxalites, said officials.

Sukma SP Kiran Chauhan said, "23 Naxalites have surrendered. All are hardcore Naxalites. They will be provided with facilities as per the government policy. On this occasion, I appeal to all Naxalites to lay down their arms and join the mainstream."

Earlier on July 8, the IED bomb planted by the Maoists caused injuries to two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans in Chhattisgarh's Timapur-Murdanda road, under the Awapalli police station area.

The CRPF jawans who were on duty when the incident took place we...