UP to bring AAU to counter terrorism, naxalism

Lucknow, Jun 29: Uttar Pradesh would be the first state in the country to constitute an 'Air Assault Unit' to counter the growing menance of terrorism and naxalism in the state.

The unit would also assist the government during disaster management like the annual havoc of floods in the eastern parts of the state.

The state government has approved the formation of the Air Assault Unit (AAU) had has given permission to purchase one multi-purpose helicopter as well as sanctioned Rs 40 crore for the purpose.

According to police sources, officials would go to the National Security Guard (NSG) and the Border Security Force (BSF), who have AAU, to seek suggestion and recommendation for the company regarding the purchase of the helicopter.

The multi-purpose helicopter would be equipped with light machine guns, long range binaculars and public announcement systems to deal with any emergency situation.

In June 2007, state police had recommended to the government for setting up the AAU to counter terrorists and naxalites. The police had also suggested to set up a special commando group of the PAC equipped with AK-47 and AK-56, which will be part of the Air Assault unit.

UNI