Dibrugarh, Oct 19: In a swift operation, the Khonsa Battalion of the Assam Rifles rescued two labourers abducted by militants of the NSCN-K from Tirap district in Arunachal Pradesh.
According to officials, the operation was launched after credible intelligence was received about the kidnapping of two labourers employed by M/S Agarwal, a firm engaged in road construction in the Lahu area under Dadam Circle, on October 18. A group of 7–8 armed insurgents from the NSCN-K were reportedly behind the abduction.
“Based on the inputs, a coordinated rescue operation was planned by the Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles,” said an official. “In a joint operation with Longding Police, two ambushes were set up in the general areas of Ngisa–Nokna trail and Nginnu–Nokna trail to intercept the insurgents and secure the release of the hostages.”
The official added, “As no movement was detected during the night, the search was intensified at first light. Around 5:50 a.m. on October 19, one of the columns came under fire from the insurgents. The troops retaliated with controlled small arms and mortar fire, keeping the safety of the kidnapped labourers as the top priority. In the ensuing firefight and subsequent search, both labourers were rescued unharmed and brought to safety.”
The operation is ongoing, reflecting the Assam Rifles’ unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security in the insurgency-affected region.
Kidnapping and extortion by the NSCN have become persistent threats in eastern Arunachal Pradesh, with militants frequently targeting road construction workers, contractors, and local businesspersons.
“Because of insurgent activities, development in eastern Arunachal has suffered greatly,” said a local resident. “These groups often target people involved in construction work. We are tired of living in fear — there must be a permanent solution to end this menace.”
