India’s Sashastra Suraksha Bal (SSB) arrested a Maoist commander from Lohaghat of Uttaranchal state on Thursday, media reports said Saturday.

The Maoist leader, Khim Raj Bhatt, was arrested while travelling to Baitadi, a far-western district, from the bordering Pancheshwor. According to reports, he has confessed leading Maoist activities in Baitadi and surrounding districts. The Maoists are yet to react to Bhatt’s arrest.

Meanwhile, security officials arrested two suspected Maoists from Nahatol area of Lalitpur Saturday morning when they tried to hide the socket bombs they were carrying. Security sources said an investigation is underway.