MP's Veerappan detained under NSA

Badwani(MP), Nov 29 (UNI) Notorious timber smuggler Rafiq, known as ''Veerappan'' of Nimar region in western Madhya Pradesh, will remain detained under National Security Act after the state advisory board confirmed the detention mooted by Badwani police.

Rafiq, at present lodged in Indore Central jail, is an accused in 19 cases of timber smuggling and 8 cases of assaulting and threatening Forest officials, police said.

Police informed the Board that people did not dare to complain against the timber mafia, which had unleashed a reign of terror and caused much damage to eco-system in the Nimar region. Rafiq, who had been detained on September 15, challenged his detention before the board.

UNI XC-SP 1447