SIT seizes arms, ammunition from Rampal's ashram

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Haryana Police, which conducted a comprehensive search operation at controversial sect leader Rampal's Satlok Ashram near Barwala town in Haryana, has seized a huge cache of arms and ammunition, a police spokesman said here Friday.

The search operation was carried out throughout Friday.

"A pregnancy test strip, petrol bombs, acid syringes and a chilly grenade were also found," the spokesman said.

Three people hiding in the premises were also taken into custody.

Rampal remained in police custody and was questioned by police Friday in Hisar. He is facing charges of murder, attempt to murder, sedition, rioting, illegal detention and others. He was arrested Wednesday.

"The search operation continues," the police spokesman said.

Among the arms recovered so far included three .32 bore revolvers, 19 air guns, two double-barrel .12 bore guns, two .315 bore rifles, and ammunition for these weapons.

"The team also found acid syringes, helmets and sticks along with 20 pairs of black dresses and two tanks containing 800 litres of diesel," the spokesman said.

The pregnancy test strip was found in the room adjacent to Rampal's room in the ashram, he added.

Police also found petrol bombs, packets of chilly powder and other things used by Rampal's private commandos and followers to prevent security forces from entering the ashram Tuesday.

"Police also found a woman lying unconscious and locked in a bathroom. She was admitted to the general hospital. She has been identified as Bijlesh, a resident of Ashok Nagar village in Madhya Pradesh," the spokesman said.

"A huge amount of eatables recovered during the search operation were being disposed off by the Food and Supplies Department in compliance with the orders of high court," the spokesman said.

Police said the search operation would continue for a few days more due to the vast area of the 12-acre ashram.

Seven separate cases have been registered against Rampal and his followers. They have been sent to five-day police custody.

"As many as 865 accused have been arrested under these cases and nine others have also been taken on police remand," the spokesman added.