Kolkata, Nov 10 (IANS) Two police personnel were abducted by the Maoists ultras in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district Tuesday evening. One of the abducted men was released later after his indisposed wife was admitted in a hospital, a top Maoist leader said.

Two police cleaners – Ram Chandra Hela and Rajendra Hela – were abducted by the rebels from near Munidaha area in the district.

Top Maoist leader Koteswar Rao alias Kishenji conceded that Ram Chandra Hela was still in their custody.

‘Villagers caught the duo and later handed them over to the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA). The Maoists are not responsible for the abduction, but since the people have grievances against them we kept them as prisoners of war (POWs),’ Kishenji told IANS.

‘Later, we heard that Rajendra’s wife was indisposed and admitted to hospital. So, on the ground of humanity and sympathy he’s been set free,’ he added.

‘But the other one is still with the Maoists as a POW,’ Kishenji said.

According to sources, the two men were group-D staff and worked as cleaners at Dharampur police camp.

‘We had also informed their families. Both are in good health. They were arrested by the villagers in protest against growing violence by the security personnel around Lalgarh region,’ he said.