Dimapur, Jan. 12 (EMN): In a major setback to NSCN(R), the Khonsa battalion of the Assam Rifles apprehended one ‘ss’ Sergeant Major Manhua Wangpan on January 11. The security forces press release stated that cadre was arrested basing on a specific input while trying to terrorise and extort money from Khonsa town.
In a joint operation, AR troops along with Arunachal Pradesh police apprehended the cadre along with a AK-56 assault rifle, live ammunition, extortion note, opium, brown sugar, INR 5000 of extortion money, multiple debit/ credit cards and other incriminating evidence.
It added that Khonsa battalion of the Assam Rifles under the aegis of DAO Division has been carrying out relentless operations in south Arunachal Pradesh to keep the area peaceful. It stated that arrest of the cadre would go a long way in creating fear among the anti national elements in the area.
During interrogation, the cadre admitted his active involvement with the outfit since 2015. He further revealed that he was part of a nine men team operating under ‘self styled’ Captain Eli Ketok, a senior cadre of the outfit and had come to Khonsa town for collection of extortion money on his instructions.
It further stated that the operation has tightened the noose around the group and has brought relief to the local population. The security forces has been maintaining vigil in view of the upcoming Republic Day celebration, Pangsau winter festival and Panchayat election in the coming month.
