Women-led Chhattisgarh Police Team Discovers Cash and Explosives in Maoist Hideouts

Synopsis
In a significant operation, a women-led police team in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband district discovered a large cache of black money and explosives linked to Maoists. The operation, led by DSP Garima Dadar, demonstrates the growing role of women in anti-Maoist initiatives.
Key Takeaways
- Women-led initiatives in police work are gaining momentum.
- Significant cash and explosives seized from Maoist hideouts.
- Collaboration between various security forces enhanced operation effectiveness.
- Authorities aim to reduce Maoists' influence in local communities.
- Continued focus on empowering women in law enforcement.
Bhopal, March 21 (NationPress) In a remarkable achievement, a police team composed entirely of women in Chhattisgarh's Gariaband district has successfully located a substantial stash of black money and explosives associated with Maoist activities.
During a collaborative operation involving police and security forces in the Pandaripani area, under the Mainpur police station’s jurisdiction, Rs 8 lakh in cash and explosive materials were confiscated.
This operation was notably spearheaded by women police officers, with DSP (Deputy Superintendent of Police) Garima Dadar playing a crucial role, highlighting the growing participation of women in anti-Maoist efforts.
Under DSP Dadar's guidance, the women police personnel teamed up with the STF (Special Task Force), Cobra Commandos, CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force), and the E-30 Ops Team (district force) to conduct this high-stakes mission in the dense forests.
In a conversation with IANS, Superintendent of Police Nikhil Rakhecha revealed that the money was hidden in a pit beneath a tree, while the explosives were concealed nearby.
The team recovered 13 gelatine rods, believed to be intended for use in IED blasts. Furthermore, literature and diaries connected to Maoism were also confiscated during the operation.
When asked about the source of the funds, the officer noted that Maoists often extort money from local villagers, sometimes as little as Rs two or five. However, the seized cash, all in Rs 500 denomination bundles, is suspected to have been acquired through contracts, potentially involving road or building contractors in the region.
The police are currently investigating to reveal more details.
The team also discovered additional documents concealed in a steel box within the hilly terrain of Pandaripani.
According to police sources, the Maoist organization operating in the Dhamtari-Gariaband-Nuapada division intended to use these funds to expand their network and carry out explosive attacks. However, their plans were effectively disrupted by the vigilance and quick actions of the Gariaband police.
DSP Dadar and Officer Gumeshwari Nareti led the operation, collaborating with Mainpur police station in-charge, Shiv Shankar Hurra.
Following this success, security forces have heightened search operations throughout the region.
Authorities believe this action will significantly undermine the financial base of the Maoists and lessen their influence over local communities. The administration is also dedicated to further empowering women police officers, recognizing their essential contribution to such operations.