ANF resumes combing operations in Malnad region

The Anti Naxal Force (ANF), in association with the local police, launched combing operations in different parts of the Malnad region on Thursday.

The ANF team conducted combing operations in Kudremukh National Park, Menasinahadya, Dyavantu, Shirlu, Mundagaru, Bukkadibailu, Narasimhaparvata, Goolya, Jogikumbri and Mullodi, which had witnessed Naxal activities in the past.

The police, however, denied that the combing operations have been started after an attack on a forest check-post at Basarikal near Kalasa in Mudigere taluk.

Superintendent of Police Harish Pande said a bottle filled with kerosene was thrown at the forest check-post. "This is an act of miscreants because it was later found that Naxals are involved in the incident. It is suspected that some locals had resorted to vandalising the check-post in a fit of rage. They had clashed with the Forest Department officials during a temple fair held recently. The investigation is on," he said.

The SP said cash awards will be presented to those who provide information about the Naxal leaders Mundagaru Lata and Jayanna. The ANF will continue its combing operations, he added.