The Hindu : New Delhi News : M.P. mulls special force to tackle terrorism

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Thursday, Sep 18, 2008
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M.P. mulls special force to tackle terrorism

In the wake of arrests of many SIMI activists in the State

Apprehensions that Madhya Pradesh could be the next target of terrorist attacks
The new Special Task Force will combat hi-tech crime, including economic offences and terrorism

New Delhi: Amid apprehensions that Madhya Pradesh could be the next target, the State police are planning to boost their fight against terror groups, including SIMI, and high-tech crime by modernising their forces and setting up a dedicated unit.

The move comes in the wake of recent arrests of a number of activists of SIMI including its top leader Safdar Nagori in the State.

“That was a major success for us. We are keeping a close watch on SIMI’s activities and ensuring that anyone indulging in anti-national activities is brought to book,” State police chief S.K. Rout said.

Madhya Pradesh has around 80,000 police personnel who are engaged in maintaining law and order, anti-terror activities besides others. The State Government is now planning to raise a Special Task Force to combat hi-tech crime, including economic offences and terrorism.

“We are upgrading our force as suggested in police modernisation scheme. That is an ongoing process. A dedicated modern wing to tackle terrorism and cyber crime is our prerogative,” Mr. Rout announced.

A number of terror groups, including SIMI, are increasingly using the Internet to carry out their strikes.

There are apprehensions that Madhya Pradesh could be the next target of terrorists but the police force is prepared to foil any such design, he said.

“We are alert and closely monitoring the law and order in the State. There is nothing to worry. Our police force is prepared to combat any terrorist activity,” he claimed.

The BJP-ruled State is also in the process of making Anti-Terrorist Cell (ATC) fully operational to combat terrorists’ strikes.

“ATC is in the process. All modalities have been completed and the cell will soon be fully operational,” Mr. Rout said.

The cell will have trained personnel especially on cyber crime. It will also be gathering various intelligence inputs.

A massive modernisation programme is also being undertaken by the Madhya Pradesh Police, which includes strengthening of cyber cell, procuring sophisticated arms, ammunition and communication equipment.

The DGP also stressed on citizen policing to keep crime mongers at bay. The force has planned a slew of measures to increase awareness among the masses.

“It is very essential for citizens to be a part of the police and help us in ensuring peace. We are also coming up with advertisements in different media to inform people and keep them safe,” he said.

Our officers regularly hold meetings with the people and discuss security related issues and ask people to be alert. Citizen policing is the best way to defeat crime and terrorism, Mr. Rout maintained. -- PTI

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