Itanagar, Mar 3: In a significant breakthrough for security forces in Tirap district, a hardcore insurgent of the proscribed United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent), ULFA (I), surrendered before a joint team of security personnel at Khonsa on Tuesday.
Acting on credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of a militant in the general area of Horu Chinghan, a focused joint operation was launched by Tirap Police along with the 36 Battalion of Central Reserve Police Force and the Khonsa Battalion of Assam Rifles at COB Noglo.
Upon reaching the suspected location, the team activated sources to establish contact with the insurgent and persuaded him to surrender. Sustained pressure combined with persistent negotiations eventually convinced the militant to shun the path of violence and return to the mainstream.
The insurgent was subsequently taken into custody at COB Noglo. The surrendered insurgent has been identified as self-styled 2nd Lieutenant Bitul Baruha (31), affiliated with the ULFA (I) faction.
During the surrender, security forces recovered one .40 calibre pistol along with a magazine and two live rounds of ammunition.
Officials said the successful surrender highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-based operations and the humane approach adopted by the joint team. The security forces reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region and to encouraging misguided youth to rejoin the mainstream.