As many as 14 naxals, four of them carrying rewards between Rs 1 lakh and Rs 3 lakh on their heads, who were allegedly involved in a string of criminal cases surrendered before police in Bijapur district today.
"The cadres, including a minor girl, turned themselves in during a programme at Kutru village, located in the Maoist stronghold area of the district," Bijapur Additional Superintendent of Police Mohit Garg told PTI.
Bijapur Collector Dr Ayyaj Tamboli and Superintendent of Police KL Dhruv were chairing the function meant to bring security forces close to villagers.
According to police, the ultras laid down arms after getting impressed with public relation drive being conducted by security forces in the region.
Among the ultras, Kursum Bodi (36), who was active as president of 'Jantana Sarkar' group in Rengawaya, was a key cadre of the region besides Kamlesh Poyam (26) who was commander of CNM (Chetana Natya Manch)- a cultural outfit of outlawed CPI (Maoist).
"The two were carrying reward of Rs 3 lakh each for their arrest. Likewise, Nagesh Gota (20) and Kursam Sayabi (25), both Jan Milita commanders, who carried reward of Rs 1 lakh each on their heads, gave up arms," the officer said.
According to police, the minor girl, aged 16, who is among surrendered rebels was part of CNM group.
All of them were involved in various kinds of naxal-related incidents like, murder attempt to murder, damaging roads, firing on police camps, arson and similar such activities.
They have cases pending against them in Kutru, Farsegarh and Bedre police stations, the ASP said.
"Anencouragementamountof Rs 10,000 was given to each of theMaoists," he said, adding thatthe ultraswould be provided assistance according to the rehabilitation policy instituted by the government.
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