Four Maoists carrying rewards surrender in Odisha

Four hardcore Maoists who were carrying rewards on their heads surrendered before Odisha police Friday, an official said.

The rebels -- Krishna Praska, Raju Hikaka, Kosai Wateke and Durjan Mandingi -- surrendered in Koraput, about 500 km from here, Inspector General of Police (southwestern range) Yashwant Jethwa told IANS.

The state government had announced a reward of Rs.1 lakh on each of them, he said.

They were armed cadres of the Communist Party of India-Maoist and were operating under the Srikakulam-Koraput divisional committee of the outlawed outfit, he said.

They said they wanted to join the mainstream after being disillusioned with the futility of armed struggle and the anti-tribal policies of the Maoist insurgents, he said.

They will be rehabilitated suitably under the surrender policy of the state government, he added.

Koraput district is considered a Maoist stronghold.