A profound sense of sorrow has enveloped Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district following the tragic death of a 10-year-old tribal girl. She was killed on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, when an improvised explosive device (IED), allegedly planted by Maoist insurgents, detonated, police confirmed.
According to Jaydeep Lakra, Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Manoharpur, the young girl was in the Tilaposi forest, gathering Sial leaves, when she inadvertently stepped on the buried IED. The device was reportedly placed by Maoists, targeting security personnel.
SDPO Lakra expressed his grief, stating, “The Maoists had planted the IED with the intention of targeting security forces, but tragically, this innocent girl unknowingly triggered the explosion, resulting in her immediate death on Tuesday morning.”
The police officer further confirmed plans to approach the state government, seeking compensation for the victim’s family in accordance with provisions for those affected by Maoist violence.
Amit Kumar, Officer-in-Charge of Jeraikela Police Station, identified the deceased as Siria Herenz, daughter of Jai Masih Herenz from Digha village. Kumar added that Siria, like many children, was out gathering Sial leaves with her friends, as schools were closed on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, for the Chhath festival.
Mr. Kumar tragically detailed the aftermath, stating, “Both of the girl’s legs were severely injured in the blast. Our team, alongside the CRPF, recovered her body, which has since been sent for a post-mortem examination. It will then be returned to her grieving family.”