AP cabinet approves 'OCTOPOS' to tackle terror

Hyderabad, Oct 1 (UNI) In a significant decision to curb increasing terrorist strikes in Andhra Pradesh, the State Cabinet today approved a Rs 882 crore proposal of the Home Department to form Organisation for Control of Terrorist Operations (OCTOPOS).

The Cabinet chaired by Chief Minsiter Y S Rajasekhara Reddy decided to recruit additionally over 35,000 police personnel and strengthen the functioning of 16 wings at a recurring expense of Rs 689.74 crore and non-recurring expense for the remaining amount, Information Minister A Ramanarayan Reddy told reporters tonight.

The decision comes in the backdrop of the twin blasts in Lumbini Park and Gokul Chat Centre on August 25 and the May 18 Mecca Masjid blasts, triggered by terrorists with international links.

Old Bullet proof cars would be replaced by modern ones in phases, he added.

UNI