Was a ULFA-I Militant Killed and Arms Recovered in Arunachal’s Namsai?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ULFA-I militant eliminated in a joint operation.
- Significant weapons recovery during the operation.
- Operation reflects ongoing security challenges.
- Linked to previous militant activities in the region.
- Continued efforts to maintain peace and stability.
Itanagar, Oct 22 (NationPress) An alleged self-styled Sergeant Major of the United Liberation Front of Assam-Independent (ULFA-I) was eliminated by the Army and Assam Rifles during a coordinated operation in Arunachal Pradesh's Namsai district on Wednesday, as per official reports.
A defense spokesperson revealed that during the night between Tuesday and Wednesday, the Army and Assam Rifles initiated an operation and established contact with militants in the 6 Mile Lekang Khampti area of Namsai district.
After dawn, a search operation uncovered the deceased militant, identified as Iwon Axom, a self-proclaimed Sergeant Major of ULFA-I. Along with the body, a rifle, a rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) round, and three rucksacks were retrieved from the location.
The spokesperson further stated that following the recovery of the militant’s body and weapons, the operation was intensified and remains ongoing. Additional units of security forces have been deployed in collaboration with the state police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
This operation highlights the persistent commitment of security forces to uphold peace and preempt any hostile activities along the Assam-Arunachal border, an area where militant activities have surged in recent months.
Sources indicate that the group of suspected ULFA-I militants was linked to a previous attack on an Army COB in Kakopathar, located in eastern Assam's Tinsukia district, on October 17.
Slain militant Iwon Axom is believed to have participated in the October 17 attack, which resulted in minor injuries to three Army personnel after militants fired shots and launched grenades from a moving vehicle.
“Troops on duty responded swiftly and efficiently, exercising caution to prevent collateral damage to nearby civilian structures,” the statement noted.
The exchange of fire reportedly lasted several minutes before the assailants retreated under pressure from the Army's counterattack.