Police Nab Three PLFI Militants in Khunti, Recover Weapons

Khunti police have successfully arrested three members of the banned PLFI (People’s Liberation Front of India) extremist group during a raid in the Baksapur Jhanda Tongri forest. The operation, conducted on Friday, led to the apprehension of Gendra Barla (alias Laden), Asim Topno, and Ajit Topno (alias Duda). Authorities seized a country-made pistol, two live bullets, PLFI pamphlets, and mobile phones from the suspects. Superintendent of Police Manish Toppo stated that the police acted on a tip-off about the PLFI members gathering to plan an incident in the forest. A special team, led by SDPO Christopher Kerketta, was formed to conduct the raid. The suspects were subsequently arrested, and the recovered items were confiscated. The arrested individuals have been sent to judicial custody. The SP also mentioned that the arrested individuals were involved in an incident where a road roller was set on fire near Ramjay village under Rania police station on May 26. During the initial investigation, they admitted to the crime, stating that they intended to spread fear. Gendra Barla, also known as Laden, has a previous criminal record and was involved in an Arms Act case in 2020. After his release from jail, he rejoined the PLFI. The raiding team comprised several police officials including Torpa SDPO, Torpa Circle Inspector, and station in-charges from Jariagarh, Rania and Karra police stations, along with armed forces.