IG rules out possibility of Naxal hideouts

Madurai, Dec 20 (UNI) Inspector General of Police (South Zone) Sanjeev Kumar today ruled out the possibility of more Maoists hiding in the deep jungles of Varushanadu hills in Theni district of the state.

Talking to mediapersons at Government Rajaji Hospital here after enquiring the condition of three Maoists, admitted here with bullet injuries sustained in an exchange of fire with police yesterday, Mr Kumar said ''though there is no possibility of extremists hiding in deep jungles, the Tamil Nadu Special Task Force (STF) personnel are still conducting intensive combing operations there.'' He said the STF had seized three weapons-- one .303 revolver, a Single Barrel Bridge Loaded (SBBL) rifle and Musket rifle from them.

The villagers around Varushanadu hills had not offered any help to the Maoists, thus facilitating a police action.

Armed police protection was given to the injured Maoists and tight security arrangements were in place at the hospital premises, the IG added.

UNI