The 10 terrorists who attacked the city on 26/11 had detailed maps of the buildings they took over. But the Mumbai police and the National Security Guard (NSG) commandos were clueless about their layouts.
So, the first assignment for the 216 Force One commandos will be to collect data to construct maps of all important buildings and locations in the city. They will start reconnaissance in the first week of December.
“The commandos will prepare informatory data, such as blueprints and maps, of such places,” said S Jagannathan, deputy inspector general in charge of Force One. The list will include buildings like Taj Hotel, Trident, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, temples and renowned educational institutions.
The unit was inducted on Tuesday morning at the SRPF grounds in Goregaon. Chief minister Ashok Chavan, deputy chief minister Chhagan Bhujbal, home minister RR Patil and director general of police AN Roy were present, along with top IPS officers. The commandos demonstrated their skills by tackling a 26/11-like situation.
Chavan said, “It was after the 26/11 terror attack that we felt the need of a specialised force to counter terrorism. Force One was conceptualised solely for this purpose.” Assuring that the they would be equipped with all necessary weapons and manpower, Patil said, “Any amount of money will be given to ensure Maharashtra’s security.”
Experts from various countries were brought in to train the commandos. Retired NSG officers and army officers also trained them. “Instead of relying on the NSG, we aimed at establishing our own unit,” Roy said.
The police will be the first to respond to any terror-like situation. The quick response teams will be next. If they fail, Force One will be called in.
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