Maoists Torch Road Construction Equipment In Malkangiri

Malkangiri: Making their presence felt in Malkangiri district, the Maoists set on fire a mixer and a roller engaged in road construction work at Kartanpali panchayat under Mathili block here late on Saturday.

According to preliminary information, a group of ultras reached the construction site where work for Sanagumma-Luler-Durkaguda road was going on under Prime Minister Gram Sadak Yojana and set the equipment afire. They also ransacked a water spraying machine before fleeing the spot.

A handwritten poster was recovered from the spot in which the Maoists had warned the contractor against going ahead with the road construction work.

A sum of Rs 4 crore was sanctioned for the road a couple of years back. However, the contractor concerned started the work only last week amid repeated threats from the ultras to refrain from the project.

Following the incident, police have intensified combing operations in the locality.