Malegoan blasts: Lt Col in ATS net, more arrests likely

MUMBAI: A Colonel posted in Deolali and a Major may face interrogation in connection with the probe into the Malegaon blasts as concerns over more officers coming under the scanner today rattled the Armed forces.

As Mumbai's Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATF) sought permission from the Defence Ministry to question more Army personnel, there were reports that a retired Lt. General and a couple of serving Colonels could also be involved.

A Lt. Colonel in Madhya Pradesh was reportedly picked up for questioning but there was no official word on it. More arrests are not ruled out. The government's worries were voiced by Defence Minister A K Antony who said the alleged involvement of serving Lieutenant Colonel S P Purohit in the Malegaon blasts was a matter of serious concern.

Necessary action will be taken against him by the Defence Ministry on the basis of the Maharashtra police's investigation report in the case. Evading a direct reply on the involvement of more serving officers, including one holding a senior rank, Antony said the Army was fully assisting the investigation "without any hesitation" and so was the Defence Ministry.

"On the part of the Army, without any hesitation, they are fully assisting and cooperating with the investigating agencies. We are waiting for a report from the Maharashtra police and I can tell you, we are taking it seriously," he added.