Sundargarh explosive loot: Prime accused George Munda arrested over alleged Maoist links

In a significant breakthrough, the police have arrested the prime accused involved in the recent explosives loot from the Banko stone mine in Sundargarh district. The main accused has been identified as George Munda.

The incident, which had raised serious security concerns, is now suspected to have links with Maoist activities. According to police sources, the arrested individual had been maintaining close ties with Maoist groups for a long period. 

Investigations suggest that he was not only involved in the loot but was also allegedly tipping off the Maoist organization about the movement and delivery of explosives to the site. This revelation has added a critical dimension to the case, hinting at a possible nexus between local operatives and insurgent groups. Officials believe that the stolen explosives may have been intended for use in extremist operations.

Speaking exclusively to OTV, Brijesh Kumar Rai, DIGP, Western Range said, “A SIT was formed under the leadership of Rourkela SP after the loot. Nonstop raids were conducted everywhere. During interrogation, we came to know about the main accused during the interrogation of the suspects. Upon interrogation, the main accused George Munda admitted to helping the Maoists loot the explosives for his personal gain.”

Further interrogation is underway, and authorities are now expanding their investigation to trace the entire supply chain and any Maoist operatives connected to the theft. Enhanced security measures and surveillance have been put in place across vulnerable mining areas of the district.

Police have assured that all those involved, including any external links, will be brought to justice.

“He also admitted that he passed on vital information about the explosives and helped them commit the loot. We have arrest him and he will be forwarded to court. He will be taken on remand for further information,” he added.