Raids on in Bokaro to nab Red leader

Bokaro: Following the recent arrest of Maoist leader Mukhlal Mahto alias Mochu, the security forces have now set their eyes on Santosh Mahto, another armed squad leader active in the Gomia block of the district. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) believes the arrest of Mukhlal has come as a huge blow to the rebel outfit especially in Jhumra and its surroundings areas.
CRPF commandant Sanjay Kumar said Mukhlal was long wanted by police for his involvement in several incidents of Maoist violence in this area.A resident of Jamnijara village in Jhumra hill, he apparently had a considerable influence in the region.
“The arrest of Mukhlal was a major setback for Maoists. Mukhlal was leading the armed squad. Next we would want to nab Santosh Mahto,” he said.
Mahto is also heading an arm squad, but it is a small one comprising six-seven cadres. His base is Luggu hills. Mahto’s squad manages to evade arrest by hiding in the jungles of the hilly terrain as they are few in numbers. Raids to nab Santosh are, however, on, said the commandant.
Mahto hails from a village situated in the surroundings of Luggu hill. He is well-acquainted with the terrain. He is also wanted in many Maoist cases.