Two NSCN militants were killed in an encounter with the Assam Rifles in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district, following which security forces launched a massive counter-insurgency operation and recovered a cache of arms and ammunition from the area.
The gunfight took place in the Doimukh Nalla area under Miao police station after intelligence inputs indicated the presence of 14 to 15 heavily armed militants allegedly involved in extortion activities in nearby villages.
Officials identified the slain cadres as self-styled Lt Col Umkong and self-styled Sergeant Enu, both linked to the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang faction.
Security forces intensified search operations in the area after the encounter amid concerns that more militants could still be hiding in the dense forest region.
During the subsequent searches, personnel recovered a large quantity of arms and ammunition, including an AK-series rifle, a 5.56 mm rifle, a pistol, a hand grenade, a radio set, torch lights and live ammunition.
Police have registered an FIR in connection with the incident.
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In a statement, the NSCN alleged that its cadres had come under “intense and unprovoked firing” from the 8th Assam Rifles while operating in the area 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 outfit said.
The group claimed its members were engaged in “maintaining peace mobilisation” and efforts linked to the proposed Stilwell International Highway project when the firing took place.
The organisation identified the deceased cadres as Lt Col Umkong from Nayang village in the Tangshang region and Sgt Enu from Chithok village in the Leinong region.
The NSCN further alleged that the incident threatened the “fragile peace and mutual understanding” in the region and warned that such actions could undermine efforts towards political dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
Security forces, however, continued operations in the area to track down other militants suspected to be part of the group.
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