8 militia members of CPI(M) surrender in Andhra Pradesh

Eight militia members of the CPI(Maoist), including four women, today surrendered before the police in Khammam district of Andhra Pradesh.

The members, between ages 20-27, were allegedly involved in many offences including murder of homeguard Chaithanya, burning of excavator at Chatti and burning of crusher mill at Gangnnametta besides providing logistical support to the fellow Maoists, according to the police.

They surrendered voluntarily before Khammam district Superintendent of Police, Kanti Rana Tata.

"They were trained in handling fire-arms and were being trained to become dalam (squad) members and were also being used to motivate others to join the militia," Tata told PTI over phone.

Maoists were trying to stop developmental activities in Chinthoor area, and using the militia members for this purpose, the SP said.

They would undergo counselling, and would be released afterwards, he said.