By Avijit Biswas
Bhagalpur: An accused involved in maoist attack on Dhanbad–Patna intercity Express train nearly ten years back was nabbed in course of raid conducted at Lathiakol village under Piri Bazar PS of Lakhisarai district on last Sunday. The raid was conducted by a joint team consisting members of para military forces and local police under leadership of ASP (operation), Lakhisarai.
The arrested accused Ajit Koda (27) as per information is resident of village Katchuwa under Chanan PS of Lakhisarai district. Name of Koda had figured in police investigation related to extremist attack on the train. He was wanted by police for long time in connection with the incident.
A case had been registered against Koda regarding his involvement in the incident in June 2013 at Chanan PS. He was charged of firing and bombing in course of maoist attack on the train. It may be mentioned the intercity express train was targeted near Kundar Halt station in Kiul-Jhajha section of East Central Railways.
After stopping the train near halt station the extremists had resorted to firing and bombing besides they looted arms from RPSF escort party. A RPSF jawan was shot dead by extremists while looting his firearm and subsequently they shot dead an ASI for trying to resist their attempt of arms loot.
The extremist violence on train had also claimed life of a passenger travelling in the train. As per information an AK-47 rifle, two Inssas rifles and several round of cartridges were looted in the incident. Koda had been evading arrest since his involvement in the incident was established in investigation.
Following receipt of information, Koda of late was hiding in Lathiyakol village, the raid was planned. Police as per sources believes Koda could prove to be prized catch for them in busting network of the extremist organization in Lakhisarai and other adjoining districts.
The hilly forest areas bordering Lakhisarai, Jamui, Munger and Banka districts had been stronghold of maoists in past. However extremists had lost ground considerably in recent years due to mounted pressure of police and para military forces.
Strong presence of security forces has also contributed in receding influence of maoists in areas earlier considered to be their stronghold in this part of state. However some reports of recent past suggest that in a bid to regain lost ground in this part efforts of strengthening their organizational network have been stepped by extremist organization. Sources said interrogation of Koda would throw light on attempts if any being made extremist organization to strengthen their network.
Read more
Two arrested for theft at jewellery shop in Bhagalpur
