In Bihar, efforts are on to secure safe release of four security men, even as the deadline set by the Maoists expired this morning. Naxals are demanding release of their eight comrades in exchange of 4 captive security men. Besides two Sub Inspetors Rupesh Kumar Sinha and Abhay Yadav, Jawans of Bihar Military Police Lukus Tete and Ehatsaam Khan are under the custody of Maoists.AIR Patna correspondent reports that a combing operation is continuing to mount pressure on naxals. A BSF helicopter has also been pressed into search operation.IG ( Operation ) KS Dwivedi said that forces have gathered vital clues about security men who have been made hostage. Director General of Police Neelmani said that the government is ready to talk with the Maoists but they should talk to the authorities directly instead of communicating through media. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar himself is supervising the rescue operation. Mr. Kumar assured the family members of the kidnapped policemen that they will be released safely.