A checkpost belonging to Tamil Nadu on Tamil Nadu - Kerala border at Manakkadavu, near Anamalai, gutted in a fire on Sunday night. Security has been strengthened at the check-post as the incident has triggered suspicion on the role of extremist elements.
Though not situated on a major route connecting Tamil Nadu with Kerala, the checkpost was set up to prevent illegal transportation of goods and tax evasion. It caught fire around 10.15 p.m. and the thatched facility was fully gutted. It took at least 30 minutes for the policemen on duty to put out the fire with the help of people living in the area.
As the checkpost does not have electricity connection, the police suspect that it could have been set ablaze by someone from outside. The source of the fire is yet to be traced. The police are also suspecting the involvement of Maoist elements in the incident. The Valparai police have registered a case and stated investigation.
The 'Q' branch of the State police has been informed about the fire.
Though not situated on a major route connecting Tamil Nadu with Kerala, the checkpost was set up to prevent illegal transportation of goods and tax evasion. It caught fire around 10.15 p.m. and the thatched facility was fully gutted. It took at least 30 minutes for the policemen on duty to put out the fire with the help of people living in the area.
As the checkpost does not have electricity connection, the police suspect that it could have been set ablaze by someone from outside. The source of the fire is yet to be traced. The police are also suspecting the involvement of Maoist elements in the incident. The Valparai police have registered a case and stated investigation.
The 'Q' branch of the State police has been informed about the fire.