Gyaneshwari Express mishap: Key suspect killed in encounter

Jhargram, Aug 27 (ANI): People's Committee against Police Atrocities (PCPA) leader Umakanto Mahato, a key accused in the May 28 Gyaneshwari Express derailment, was killed in an encounter with security forces at Mohanpur forest near Lothasuli in West Bengal's Jhargram District.

Acting on a tip-off, the joint forces comprising the CRPF, the CoBRA and the West Bengal police personnel closed in on the area at around 1:00 am. Mahato and his squad opened fire to which the forces retaliated.

When the firing ceased, the joint forces entered the forested area and found the body of Mahato.

A motorcycle, a mobile phone and a 9 mm pistol was found near his body.

The CBI took over the Gyaneshwari Express investigation from the state police in June, and announced a reward of Rs three lakh for information leading to the arrest of three prime accused - Bapi Mahato, Umakanto Mahato and Asit Mahato. Bapi is already in custody and Asit is still absconding.

The derailment of the Howrah-Kurla Gyaneshwari Express on May 28 by suspected the Maoists took a huge toll of innocent civilian lives. (ANI)