Hardcore Maoist arrested in Orissa with huge cache of arms

Bhubaneswar, Feb. 6 (ANI): A hardcore maoist, who is also an explosive expert, has been arrested with huge amount of arms and ammunition in Rayagada district of Orissa, police say.

Ramesh Mambalika alias Purna, who is suspected of his involvement in murder, arms and ammunition loot and landmine explosion, was arrested on Tuesday and arms and ammunition recovered from him were displayed to the media on Friday.

Acting upon specific information, CRPF and the district police of Rayagada nabbed Purna from Tubani village in Gudari Police station area.

Ammunition, including gelatines and several kilograms of splinters used in making of landmines, five country-made barrel guns were seized from him. Four identity cards were also recovered from his baggage.

"Ramesh Mambalika alias Purna, a Maoist has been arrested, who was a wanted criminal in many cases. There are several cases registered against him. He is a local organiser of the area and also a landmine explosive expert. He was also handling the dump in the Maoist affected areas," said Anup Krishna, Superintendent of Police, Rayagada.

The rebels operate in large parts of the eastern, central and southern countryside, and officials say they are now spreading to cities and bigger towns.

The rebels have ignored repeated calls to renounce violence and negotiate, and have stepped up their attacks in recent past months, prompting the government to go after them in a concerted strike.

The Maoists are armed with sophisticated arms and ammunition, assault rifles and even communication tools.

Thousands have been killed in the Maoist insurgency, which began in the late 1960s. (ANI)