June 2: A task force found a bundle of building materials, including iron rods and tin sheets, stolen from the now dismantled Bongaigaon Thermal Power Station, in a forest at Salakati in Kokrajhar district on Saturday.

The task force comprises seven organisations, including the All Bodo Students Organisation (Absu), the All Koch Rajbongshi Students Union (AKRSU) and villagers of the area, and was formed to protect the equipment of the power plant.

The force acted on a tip-off and launched a search operation in the nearby forest almost immediately. The search yielded goods valued at Rs 4 lakh. Police later arrested one Nabin Borgoyari of Nalgibari in connection with the theft.

The process of dismantling the plant had begun two months back and the thefts began soon after, despite the presence of a police outpost.

The deputy general manager of the plant, T. Singh, said the police and guards were helpless as the thieves came in groups comprising at least 40 to 60 members and hurled stones at them. “Stealing of iron pipes, rods and other materials are going on unabated in broad daylight in full view of the power plant officials,” a resident said.