Itanagar, Apr 30: In a major intelligence-based operation, the Assam Rifles apprehended one NSCN (Khango) cadre and an over ground worker (OGW) in the Rima-Putok circle of Changlang district on Tuesday last, Defence sources said on Thursday.
Acting on specific inputs about the presence of an OGW in contact with an armed Naga extremist (ANE), and further corroborated by own sources, security forces launched a well-coordinated operation in the area.
During the operation, Kamnong Pangtha, an ANE affiliated with NSCN (Khango), and a Changlang-based OGW, Gopang Negimu, were apprehended.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the duo was actively involved in extortion activities and played a role in recruiting local youth into insurgent ranks. Their activities were mainly concentrated in Changlang and Jairampur areas.
Investigations also indicated that the OGW was attempting to facilitate the defection of cadres from the NSCN (Khango) faction to the NSCN (Angmai) faction in the Rima-Putok circle, in a bid to strengthen the latter’s operational presence in the region.
The apprehended individuals, along with recovered belongings, have been handed over to local police for further investigation and necessary legal action.
The operation underscores the continued vigilance and proactive efforts of Assam Rifles in maintaining security and stability, while effectively countering insurgent activities and their support networks in the region, sources added.