Dibrugarh, May 13: Security forces have launched a massive search operation in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district following an encounter between the Assam Rifles and suspected NSCN militants in the Doimukh Nalla area under Miao police station.
Two heavily armed militants were killed during the intense exchange of fire. The slain cadres were identified as self-styled Lt. Col. Umkong and self-styled Sergeant Enu.
Top officials said intelligence inputs had confirmed the presence of 14 to 15 heavily armed militants in the area who were allegedly pressuring villagers for extortion.
Following the killing of the two cadres, security forces intensified counter-insurgency operations across the area to track down the remaining militants.
During an extensive search of the encounter site, security personnel recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition, including an AK-series rifle, a 5.56 mm rifle, a pistol, a hand grenade, a radio set, two torchlights, and live ammunition of various weapons.
Police have registered an FIR in connection with the incident.
Meanwhile, the NSCN, in a press release, condemned the operation and claimed its cadres had come under “intense and unprovoked firing” from the 8th Assam Rifles at around 8:30 pm on May 11.
“We express our profound shock, anguish and strongest condemnation over the grave and unfortunate incident that unfolded at Doimuk Nala area under Miao Circle, Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh,” the statement said.
According to the outfit, the cadres belonged to its Pangsau Pass Command Group and were allegedly engaged in “peace mobilisation” activities and efforts to revive the Stilwell International Highway.
The outfit identified the deceased as Lt. Col. Umkong from Nayang village under the Tangshang region and Sgt. Enu from Chithok village in the Leinong region.
The NSCN further alleged that the incident could threaten the fragile peace process and accused security forces of carrying out a “provocative act” that could escalate tensions in the region.
