Palamu News: Three TSPC Extremists Arrested with AK-47 Rifle in Karmati Forest, Palamu

Palamu, Jharkhand, October 29, 2024: In a significant police operation, three members of the banned extremist organization Tritiya Prastuti Committee (TSPC) were arrested on Tuesday in the dense Karmati Forest area of Palamu. The arrests come in the wake of growing concerns about security in the region, especially with the upcoming assembly elections.

Police Operation in Karmati Forest

Acting on a tip-off, Palamu police launched an extensive search operation in the Karmati Forest, which is known to be a hideout for extremist groups. The police received intelligence that three to four TSPC members were present in the area with firearms and were potentially planning to execute a violent incident. The operation was coordinated between the police teams from Panki and Manatu police stations, who surrounded the forest to conduct a thorough search.

Upon locating the suspects, identified as Shravan Oraon alias Hemant alias Abhay Kumar, Prem Ganjhu alias Sagar alias Dashrath Ganjhu and Santu Kumar alias Shailendra Ji, the police moved in. The extremists attempted to flee upon seeing the officers, but swift action by the armed forces led to their apprehension. The police successfully seized an AK-47 rifle, 79 rounds of 7.65 mm ammunition, a pistol and a country-made revolver from the trio.

Details of the Arrested TSPC Extremists

The arrested individuals are alleged to be part of the Ganjhu gang of the TSPC, which has been involved in various criminal activities in the region, including extortion and violent attacks. Police records indicate that Prem Ganjhu has six criminal cases registered against him in various jurisdictions, including Hazaribagh and Latehar.

His accomplice, Santu Kumar, was previously involved in a police encounter in Chatra district during the destruction of poppy crops. Shravan Oraon also has multiple criminal allegations against him in Manika and Hazaribagh.

The operation has been hailed as a significant achievement for local law enforcement, especially as they aim to curb extremist violence ahead of the assembly elections scheduled for later this year. The police have stated that the arrests will help dismantle the TSPC’s network and deter potential violent acts intended to disrupt the electoral process.

Implications for Local Security Ahead of Elections

The arrests come at a critical time as Palamu, like many parts of Jharkhand, faces challenges related to extremist violence and organized crime. The TSPC, which seeks to establish a separate Maoist regime in Jharkhand, has been increasingly active in the region, exploiting local grievances and targeting security forces. This latest operation underscores the ongoing efforts by the state police to ensure a safe environment for voters and maintain law and order during the electoral period.

Local authorities have assured citizens that they are taking proactive measures to enhance security and will continue to conduct operations targeting extremist groups in the area. The arrests are expected to send a strong message to other criminal elements and reaffirm the police’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.

As the assembly elections approach, the importance of community engagement and support for law enforcement is vital in combating the threats posed by extremist organizations like the TSPC. Authorities encourage residents to report any suspicious activities in their areas, reinforcing the partnership between the police and the community in the fight against crime and violence.

This operation highlights not only the proactive stance of law enforcement in Jharkhand but also the importance of vigilance among the public to ensure a peaceful electoral process. As the state prepares for the upcoming elections, maintaining security and addressing the root causes of extremism will be paramount in fostering a safe and conducive environment for democratic participation.