Did Arunachal Police Uncover a Cross-Border Militant Recruitment Network?
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Synopsis
In a significant breakthrough, Arunachal Pradesh Police have dismantled a network involved in militant recruitment and arms trafficking, revealing disturbing connections to cross-border illegal activities and abuse of local youth. This alarming situation underscores the urgent need for vigilance against such threats in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Police have dismantled a militant recruitment network.
- Links to arms trafficking and cross-border activities were uncovered.
- Five individuals were arrested for recruiting vulnerable youths.
- Investigations revealed severe abuse faced by some youths.
- Community awareness is vital in combatting these threats.
Itanagar, May 8 (NationPress) The Arunachal Pradesh Police announced on Thursday that they have dismantled a network involved in militant recruitment, arms trafficking, and cross-border illegal activities within the state.
A senior police official indicated that this network was linked to the National Socialist Council for Taniland (NSCT) and its military faction, the United Tani Army (UTA).
Authorities apprehended five operatives from the UTA and NSCT, who were accused of recruiting individuals from marginalized communities into the UTA, alongside engaging in other unlawful activities, including violations of the Arms Act.
Law enforcement also recovered various arms and ammunition from the suspects. The investigation commenced in January after police took suo-motu cognizance of threatening videos and letters that circulated on social media, allegedly from the self-styled NSCT commander, Anthony Doke.
Security forces are actively searching for Doke, who is linked to 20 criminal cases.
Authorities have filed a case under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA).
Intelligence reports suggested that some of the detainees were involved in the trafficking of young boys from the Tarasso region in Papum Pare district to a militant training facility across the border in Myanmar, which shares a 520 km unfenced border with Arunachal Pradesh.
Investigations revealed that at least three other boys from Itanagar had been forcibly recruited into the UTA. Fortunately, two of the three managed to escape and return home.
Upon their return, the youths informed their families and police about the severe physical and mental abuse they endured, as well as the deplorable conditions they faced during their forced training at the militant camp. The NSCT has been advocating for the establishment of “Taniland” for the Tani tribal community, primarily residing in Arunachal Pradesh’s northeastern region near the Assam border. Additionally, several other groups are also pushing for the creation of “Taniland”.
On April 30, police apprehended an individual associated with NSCN-KYA, who was involved in the coercive collection of funds from contractors and traders.
During interrogation, this individual revealed details about an arms trafficking network based in Itanagar, which has connections with insurgent factions in Nagaland.
The police also uncovered a link between this arms operation and a narcotics network functioning in and around Itanagar.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the alarming trend of militant recruitment and arms trafficking in Arunachal Pradesh. The police's proactive measures are commendable, yet they highlight a broader concern regarding the safety and security of vulnerable communities. As a nation, we must remain vigilant and supportive of law enforcement efforts to safeguard our youth and uphold peace.
NationPress
14/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the recent operation by Arunachal Pradesh Police about?
The Arunachal Pradesh Police recently dismantled a network involved in militant recruitment, arms trafficking, and cross-border illegal activities.
Who were involved in the militant recruitment?
Five operatives linked to the UTA and NSCT were arrested for recruiting youths from marginalized communities.
What prompted the police investigation?
The investigation began after police took suo-motu cognizance of threatening videos and letters circulated on social media.
What are the legal actions taken against the accused?
Police registered a case under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and the UAPA.
What are the implications of this bust on local communities?
This bust highlights the urgent need for awareness and protection of vulnerable communities against militant recruitment and trafficking.
