Maoist leader and 2 aides arrested in Odisha

A hardcore Maoist and his three accomplices  were arrested and a huge cache of explosives and arms were seized in separate operations in Sambalpur and Rayagada districts, police said today.

The major arms haul was made in Maoist-hit Chandrapur block of Rayagada district where securitymen swung into action on the basis of information given by a surrendered ultra.

During a special operation in the dense Sitagudi forest in Chandrapur block on the night of December 11-12, security personnel stumbled upon the explosives, including 15 powerful landmines weighing five kg each, they said.

The seizures also included five high-explosive grenades, 14 country-made guns, 17 detonators, six bundles of wire, six country-made bullets, six pressure bombs with keys, two remote key, 50 empty detonator case besides live cartridges, a battery, 18 empty tiffin carriers and six gun barrel, they said.

In Sambalpur district, a hardcore Maoist from neighbouring Jharkhand involved in imparting arms training to rebel cadre in Saranda forest and his three associates were arrested last night, Sambalpur Superintendent of Police Nikhil Kanodia said.

On a tip-off, the ultra identified as Ranbir Jharna alias Mangala, who hailed from Anka Gurubeda under Khumti district of Jharkhand, was nabbed by a police team when he was in the town for purchasing materials for carrying out Maoist activities, he said.

Jharna alongwith his accomplices - Mangalu Munda, Basant Harenz and Durga Topno - was staying in a rented house at Deheripalli locality here, they said, adding the house was being used as a transit centre by the red rebels.

The three associates of Jharna, involved in offences like torching of a construction company plant, were being used for logistic support and similar works.