At least one Assam Rifles personnel was injured in an encounter with suspected militants in Assam's Tinsukia district on Tuesday, authorities reported on Tuesday.
Tinsukia Superintendent of Police, Gaurav Abhijit Dilip, disclosed that the incident occurred this morning as a convoy of 31 Assam Rifles was en route from Changlang in Arunachal Pradesh to Margherita.
Dilip stated, "Unknown miscreants opened fire at the convoy, prompting a retaliatory response from the forces."
Confirming the casualty, Dilip added, "One Assam Rifles personnel sustained injuries in the exchange. There are unconfirmed reports of an injury on the attackers' side as well. Currently, a joint search operation is underway."
While the identities of the militants remain undisclosed, Dilip noted, "NSCN and ULFA(I) are known to be active in the area."
A senior Assam Rifles official verified the incident, mentioning that the injured individual was evacuated by helicopter for medical assistance.
"The convoy, consisting of three vehicles, was ambushed by militants during a routine patrol. Fortunately, the assault was effectively repelled, with minor injuries sustained by one soldier who is now in stable condition," the official stated on anonymity.
Further details are anticipated, with the official asserting, "We await updates from the scene, and additional information will be provided accordingly."
Meanwhile, an email purportedly from United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) Publicity Department Member Captain Rumel Asom claimed responsibility for the attack.
The email cited 'Operation Pratishodh' as retaliation on behalf of two deceased cadres of the banned militant outfit.
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