Who is the ULFA-I linkman arrested by Assam Police?
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Synopsis
In a significant operation, Assam Police has arrested Shibanan Saikia, a suspected linkman for the banned ULFA-I. This move comes in the wake of recent attempts by the group to disrupt peace during the Independence Day celebrations. Authorities are now investigating his connections further.
Key Takeaways
- Shibanan Saikia arrested for links to ULFA-I.
- Joint operation with CRPF led to the arrest.
- Recent terror plot involved IEDs in Guwahati.
- Charges filed under multiple acts for terrorism.
- Continued vigilance is essential for regional security.
Guwahati, June 28 (NationPress) On Saturday, the Assam Police apprehended an individual for allegedly serving as a linkman for the outlawed group United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent), according to officials.
The arrested individual has been named Shibanan Saikia.
Saikia was taken into custody by law enforcement from a tea factory located in the Charaideo district.
A senior police official stated, "Our surveillance on Saikia's activities has been rigorous. He has been identified as a facilitator for the militant group ULFA-I. His arrest was part of a collaborative operation with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). We plan to interrogate Saikia to discover more connections with ULFA-I."
Recently, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) submitted a chargesheet against three individuals linked to the banned insurgent organization ULFA-I for their suspected involvement in placing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in Guwahati during the 2024 Independence Day festivities.
The suspects—Paresh Baruah, Abhijit Gogoi, and Jahnu Boruah—face charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and the Explosive Substances Act.
The charges were filed on Friday following a thorough investigation into this terror plot, which was aimed at unsettling the region and instilling fear among the populace, as stated by the NIA on Saturday.
According to the NIA, the accused were connected to an IED that was planted at Dispur Last Gate, Guwahati, as part of a broader conspiracy by ULFA-I to carry out multiple IED explosions throughout Assam.
The group’s objective was to disrupt the Independence Day celebrations and create a climate of fear through coordinated terror acts.
The NIA remarked, "The trio were linked to the IED planted by the terror group at Dispur Last Gate, Guwahati, Assam, as part of the ULFA (I) conspiracy to execute multiple blasts across Assam, particularly targeting the I-Day celebrations last year."
The investigation, which the NIA took over in September 2024, revealed that the IEDs were designed to cause casualties, injuries, and damage to property, with the overarching aim of undermining India's unity, integrity, security, and sovereignty.
"The IEDs were intended to inflict harm and/or cause destruction to property, posing a threat to the unity, integrity, security, and sovereignty of India, and to incite terror among the populace," the NIA added.
Ongoing investigations are continuing in this matter.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the ongoing challenges posed by insurgent groups like ULFA-I in Assam. The proactive measures taken by law enforcement indicate a commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region. The collaboration with the NIA also underscores the importance of vigilant governance in countering threats to national integrity.
NationPress
28/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was arrested by Assam Police?
Assam Police arrested Shibanan Saikia, who is alleged to be a linkman for ULFA-I.
What charges were filed against the suspects?
The suspects face charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and the Explosive Substances Act.
What was the purpose of the IEDs planted in Guwahati?
The IEDs were intended to disrupt Independence Day celebrations and instill fear among the public.
What is ULFA-I?
ULFA-I stands for the United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent), a banned militant outfit operating in Assam.
What operations did the police conduct?
Police conducted a joint operation with the CRPF to apprehend Shibanan Saikia at a tea factory in Charaideo.
