Bhubaneswar: Even though the Maoist bastion in Odisha is gradually tumbling down due to intensive operations against the ultras by Odisha Police along with other security forces for the last few years, use of sophisticated weapons by the ultras is a major concern, said sources.
The Left-Wing Extremists (LWEs) are failing to regain their foothold in many parts of the state owing to several factors including able leadership in the state, better coordination among the security forces and stiff resistance from the gullible tribals.
However, some other worrying factors encountered during the anti-LWE operations have put the security forces on alert. The ultras are trying to enter new areas in the state where they had no influence earlier.
Similarly, the recovery of some advanced weapons from the Maoist hideouts has also emerged a major cause of concern for the security forces.
According to data revealed by Odisha Police, in 2020, the police managed to seize 61 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and 60 guns. As many as 26 sophisticated guns including LMG – 1,AK-47 – 1, INSAS – 8, SLR – 7, Sten – 3,Carbin – 1, 303 – 3, 9mm – 2 and CM – 34 have been recovered from the Maoists in 2020 which is highest till now.
According to experts, the ultras secure maximum number of weapons from the security forces during the incidents of ambush and through looting the security forces.
Neighbouring countries like Pakistan and China have reportedly been supplying sophisticated weapons to the Maoists in Odisha through Nepal border via Bihar and Jharkhand in order to escalate violence in the country.
The Maoists are buying the weapons through extortion money collected from local contractors, businessmen and money earned through illegal ganja trade. The Maoists in Odisha have also been using hawala money to run their operations.
Similarly, the resolution of Odisha police to end the Red menace could also be gauged from the fact that maximum number of Exchange of Fire (EoF) incidents initiated due to police action happened in 2020. As many as 27 EoF had taken place between the LWEs and Odisha Police during 2020.
