Gariaband, Chhattisgarh:In a major breakthrough against the Naxal network, police in Chhattisgarh have arrested three people and recovered ₹21 lakh in cash allegedly hidden by Naxal commander Chalapathi in the Rajadera forest in 2024.

According to police, the arrested accused include Singe alias Roshni, a resident of Gamgulavar village in Sukma district, who was reportedly a close associate of Naxal commander Chalapathi. The second accused has been identified as Budhari Muchaki alias Budri alias Soni, who is said to be a former commander of the Sinapali group. The third accused, Nohar Markam, a resident of Bhutbeda village under Mainpur police station limits, is allegedly a Naxal supporter.

During interrogation, the accused reportedly revealed that the ₹21 lakh had been buried near a hill in the Rajadera forest by commander Chalapathi in 2024. Police said the money was allegedly collected through illegal extortion from contractors and local residents.

According to investigators, the two women, who had surrendered and were staying at a Naxal rehabilitation camp, allegedly planned to retrieve the hidden money. They reportedly reached the forest with the assistance of their former associate, Nohar Markam.

Police have registered a case against all three accused under Sections 308(2) and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Sections 17, 18, 20, 38 and 40 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Further investigation is underway to establish the complete network behind the hidden cash and its alleged links to Naxal financial activities.

The recovery of ₹21 lakh is being viewed by police as a significant breakthrough in efforts to track the financial operations of the Naxal network.