Naxals arrested in UP tried to source AK-47s from Bihar

Lucknow, Oct 17: The arrest of ten naxalites in Uttar Pradesh last week has confirmed the fears of security agencies that a major module was on the verge of being set up.

Investigations that have been conducted show that the naxalites were trying to set up a base in Uttar Pradesh with the help of criminal gangs. Attempts to set up a base in UP were being made since 2011. However, the naxalites were unable to do so as they were short of funds.

The 11 people, who were arrested in Hindon Vihar, Sardarpur and Chandoli were in touch with criminal gangs in Western UP to raise money. The police also learnt that they were indulging in criminal activities to raise funds.

A senior officer with the Uttar Pradesh police department told OneIndia that the intention was not just to raise funds. "We suspect that they were planning a major strike in the state ahead of the elections," the officer said.

The police recovered Gelatine Rods, detonators, live cartridges and pistols from these men.

Investigations have also shown that they were gathering material and trying to carry out a major strike. One of the naxalites was planning a trip to Bihar where he had hidden an AK-47 rifle. He was planning on getting the rifle to Uttar Pradesh, the police also say.

Although prima facie, the police have ruled out links between the naxalites and the terrorists, they say that the probe would focus on this angle as well.

The police say that there are several defunct terror modules in Uttar Pradesh. There are people who worked closely with the Indian Mujahideen when the outfit was at its peak. The naxalites may have got in touch with them to procure arms and ammunition, the police also say.

OneIndia News