STF arrests top Maoist leader, 4 associates in WB

In a major boost to anti-Maoist operation, Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal arrested five Maoists including a senior rebel on Saturday. The senior Maoist rebel was identified as, 48-year-old, Sudip Chongdar alias Kanchan who was second in command after top Maoist leader Kishenji and is Secretary of the ultras of the West Bengal. Kumar while briefing the media informed that Chongdar was a chief strategist of the banned outfit and had planned many movements, including the 'Lalgarh' in 2008.