Rourkela/Chaibasa : In a major breakthrough against Maoist activities, the Chaibasa police have recovered approximately ₹35 lakh in cash that was buried underground, believed to be funds intended for anti-national operations.

Acting on a credible tip-off, a team from the Chaibasa police launched a search operation in a forested area and unearthed a steel container filled with 35 neatly packed bundles of currency notes. The recovered cash was wrapped in plastic and paper to prevent damage and was buried deep underground, indicating a deliberate attempt to conceal it for long-term use.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the money was meant to fund Maoist operations, including the procurement of explosives and laying of landmines to target security forces in the region.

Police sources confirmed that the entire amount has been taken to the police station for official counting and documentation. While the current estimate stands at ₹35 lakh, the final figure will be confirmed post verification.

Superintendent of Police (Chaibasa) praised the alertness and efficiency of the team involved, calling it a significant success in the ongoing fight against left-wing extremism. He also noted that such recoveries are crucial in cutting off financial lifelines to insurgent groups.