World | India
Forces deployed to stop looting and robbery in Bihar
Worried over reports of criminals looting abandoned homes and robbing those fleeing the swirling flood waters of the Kosi in Bihar, the government has deployed hundreds of security personnel to provide protection.
- IANS
- Published: 00:03 September 8, 2008
Patna: Worried over reports of criminals looting abandoned homes and robbing those fleeing the swirling flood waters of the Kosi in Bihar, the government has deployed hundreds of security personnel to provide protection.
The state government had deployed more than 3,500 armed security personnel belonging to the Bihar police, Special Auxiliary Police and Home Guards to maintain law and order in the state where the flooded Kosi river has wreaked havoc since the past several days. Besides, around 3,500 army personnel and over 650 men of the National Disaster Response Force are engaged in relief and rescue operation in the areas.
"The government had deployed security forces for the safety and security of the people and their properties in flood hit areas," an official of the home department said yesterday.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has warned of stern action against those found robbing people in flood-affected areas.
"Large number of flood victims taking shelter in relief camps have complained of theft and looting by anti-social elements," an official said.
More than a hundred cases of theft and looting have been reported from Madhepura, Supaul, Saharsa, Araria and Purnea - the districts worst-affected by the floods that have claimed 22 lives officially and affected over 2.7 million people.
Criminals have targeted Madhepura town and smaller places like Udakishanganj, Murliganj, Bihariganj in Madhepura district.
Similar looting has been reported in towns in Supaul and Saharsa. There are reports of boatmen looting flood victims in the name of rescuing them.
Thousands of people have fled their homes, taking only the bare essentials with them and leaving behind everything else.
Share this article
News Editor's choice
-
A year after 173 defenceless people were killed
Mumbai itself is far from safe from another deadly attack, even though the level of security consciousness of the average Mumbaikar has been raised since 26/11
-
Nato supports Obama's plea
European and other allies to send around 6,000 troops to Afghanistan
-
Official confirms mayor is the suspect
Many witnesses have come forward, justice secretary says
-
Into an oasis of values
A place to snuggle in the warmth of old manners away from the bustle of city life
