4 ULFA-I cadres surrender to Assam Rifles in Arunachal's Longding district
Synopsis
Four ULFA-I fighters laid down arms before Assam Rifles in Arunachal's Longding district on 8 August, while two others were arrested in Assam's Tinsukia over an alleged plot to attack civilians. The back-to-back operations mark a notable squeeze on the proscribed outfit's operational reach across the northeast.
Key Takeaways
Four ULFA-I cadres surrendered to Assam Rifles in Longding district, Arunachal Pradesh on 8 August 2025 .
The cadres deposited four weapons along with ammunition and war-like stores during the surrender.
The surrender followed an intelligence-based operation along the Chupkhao Track in Longding district.
Separately, Humenjyoti Baruah (27) and Papu Moran (30), both self-styled second lieutenants of ULFA-I, were arrested in Tinsukia, Assam .
Police recovered two AK-56 rifles , 172 rounds of ammunition, and two hand grenades from the arrested duo.
Officials allege the Tinsukia pair had been tasked to carry out an attack on civilians in Tinsukia town.
Four hardcore cadres of the proscribed United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) (ULFA-I) surrendered to the Assam Rifles in Longding district of Arunachal Pradesh on 8 August 2025, handing over weapons, ammunition, and other war-like stores to security forces. Officials described the development as a significant setback to the outfit's operational capabilities in the region.
How the Surrender Unfolded
According to a Defence spokesman, the surrender was secured through a meticulously planned intelligence-based operation conducted along the Chupkhao Track in Longding district. The operation followed sustained intelligence gathering, continuous surveillance, and persistent engagement by security forces over an extended period.
The four cadres deposited four weapons along with ammunition and other war-like stores upon surrendering. Officials said these efforts ultimately persuaded the insurgents to lay down arms and abandon the path of violence.
What Security Forces Said
The Defence spokesman said the successful operation underscored the effectiveness of sustained counter-insurgency efforts in this strategically important northeastern corridor. Security forces have been combining robust operational measures with outreach initiatives aimed at encouraging insurgents to return to the mainstream.
'The latest surrender reflects the growing confidence among insurgents in the security forces and reinforces the message that the path of peace and development offers a secure and dignified future,' an official statement said.
Parallel Arrests in Assam's Tinsukia District
Separately, two alleged ULFA-I cadres were recently arrested in an intelligence-based operation in Tinsukia district of Assam. The operation was conducted jointly by the Assam Police with assistance from central security agencies at Jagun, following specific intelligence inputs.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Humenjyoti Baruah, alias Siyor Asom (27), a resident of Panitola, and Papu Moran, alias Manoj Asom (30), from Baghjan. Police said both are self-styled second lieutenants of the proscribed outfit.
Preliminary investigation reportedly revealed that the two had allegedly entered Assam from Myanmar through Jairampur in Arunachal Pradesh before moving towards Tinsukia. Security personnel intercepted their vehicle at Jagun Bazaar and took them into custody.
Arms and Alleged Plot Uncovered
During the Tinsukia arrest, police recovered two AK-56 assault rifles, 172 rounds of AK-series ammunition, two hand grenades, backpacks, forest survival supplies, and a medical kit containing syringes and opioid-based medicines, among other war-like stores.
Officials said initial investigation indicates the two militants had allegedly been assigned by ULFA-I to carry out an indiscriminate attack targeting civilians in Tinsukia town with the aim of spreading fear and panic, according to officials. The claims are based on preliminary investigation and have not yet been independently verified.
Broader Counter-Insurgency Picture
The twin developments — a surrender in Arunachal Pradesh and arrests in Assam — come amid intensified security operations across the northeastern region. The Indian Armed Forces have reiterated their commitment to lasting peace and stability in the area. The surrender of the four cadres is also expected to send a strong message to other insurgents operating in the region about the opportunities available to abandon violence and return to the mainstream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the four ULFA-I cadres surrender?
The four ULFA-I cadres surrendered to the Assam Rifles along the Chupkhao Track in Longding district of Arunachal Pradesh on 8 August 2025. They deposited four weapons along with ammunition and other war-like stores during the surrender.
Who were the two ULFA-I members arrested in Tinsukia?
The arrested individuals are Humenjyoti Baruah, alias Siyor Asom (27), from Panitola, and Papu Moran, alias Manoj Asom (30), from Baghjan — both described by police as self-styled second lieutenants of the proscribed ULFA-I. They were intercepted at Jagun Bazaar in Tinsukia district by Assam Police with central security agency assistance.
What arms were recovered from the Tinsukia arrests?
Police recovered two AK-56 assault rifles, 172 rounds of AK-series ammunition, two hand grenades, backpacks, forest survival supplies, and a medical kit containing syringes and opioid-based medicines. Officials said the haul indicates the duo was prepared for a sustained operation.
What was the alleged plan of the two arrested ULFA-I cadres?
According to officials, preliminary investigation suggests the two were allegedly assigned by ULFA-I to carry out an indiscriminate attack on civilians in Tinsukia town to spread fear and panic. The claims are based on initial investigation and have not been independently verified.
What is ULFA-I and why is it proscribed?
The United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent), or ULFA-I, is a banned insurgent outfit operating primarily in Assam and parts of the northeast. It is the faction of the original ULFA that rejected peace talks with the Indian government and has been designated a terrorist organisation under Indian law.
