The Naxals seem to have brought a paradigm shift in carrying out subversive activities as security forces have for the first time recovered a "unique" remote-controlled device to blow set off IEDs on their targets to cause maximum casualties.
The device was recovered during a five-day offensive carried out in all Naxal-affected states beginning December 26 by CRPF in close coordination with BSF, ITBP and state police forces.
"The most alarming recovery was that of a unique dual switch mechanism which can probably be activated by remote control as well as timer device....The use of remote mechanism for triggering IED would be a paradigm shift on the part of Maoists and spell trouble for security forces," the CRPF says in an internal note.
As part of this operation, a total of 49 special operations were launched, out of which 27 operations were on inter-state borders while 22 operations involved multi battalions.
Last month, CRPF had also recovered an IED with similar switch mechanism from a petrol pump at Chhagribanda in Simdega district of Jharkhand wherein the device was hidden under the oil stock tank of the petrol pump.
Sources said the primary objective of the coordinated offensive was to launch simultaneous strike in all the core areas of CPI(Maoist) influence, which was achieved with active support of the local police.
Similar operations are likely to be carried out against the Naxals and prevent them from regrouping before the coming Lok Sabha polls.
