Raipur: A trooper of Chhattisgarh Armed Force was arrested for allegedly selling automated weapons and ammunition to Maoists cadres in insurgency-hit Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh, police said.

The accused jawan has been identified as Raju Kujur from 10th battalion (E Company) of Chhattisgarh Armed Force, said Abhishek Pallav, Superintendent of Police, Dantewada.

Sources said Kujur allegedly stole sophisticated firearms and ammunition and stored them in a secluded area in the forest. “He had stolen two self -loaded rifles (SLRs) and four magazines with 70 rounds of ammunition. An investigation has been launched in this regard.” 

He added during interrogation Kujur tried misleading the team and said a group of 15-16 ultras had snatched the firearms from him. But eventually he accepted that he stole the weapons and tried selling them.

“He had struck a deal with the naxals. The deal was to sell the firearms for Rs 2.5 lakh each and Rs 500 for one round of ammunition. He was waiting for the money before handing over the weapons,” Pallav added.

A case under Sections 380 (theft) and 457 (Lurking house, trespass or house-breaking by night in order to commit offence) of Indian Penal Code has been lodged and the matter is being investigated to look into other angles, Pallav said.