Maoists torch six vehicles in Bihar`s Gaya district

Patna: Suspected Maoists torched half a dozen vehicles and machines of a private construction company on Monday in Bihar's Gaya district, police said.

"A group of armed Maoists attacked the camp of SP Malik Company Private Limited near Paimar river on Gaya-Wazirganj road... They torched six vehicles, including their machines -- a JCB, crane and Poklane -- for not paying levy demanded by the outfit," a district police official said.

According to police officials, Maoists also assaulted employees of the construction company, which is engaged in construction of a railway overbridge here.

Maoists in rural areas across Bihar are paid levy by private construction companies, contractors, traders, businessmen and even government officials.

Police have lodged a case on the basis of the statements of the company staff and started investigation.

Gaya is considered to be a Maoist stronghold.