Dibrugarh: Two suspected overground workers linked to the NSCN (IM) were apprehended by the Lekhapani Battalion of Assam Rifles during a joint operation in the Wara area of Arunachal Pradesh near Tinsukia on Saturday.The operation followed intelligence inputs on the movement of overground workers allegedly connected to self-styled major Wangjen Pantha of the NSCN (IM). Agencies had indicated the suspects were involved in facilitating recruitment of local youth into insurgent networks.The apprehended persons were identified as Kekho Namet and Yumsen Mannow, both residents of Lazu village in Tirap district.Preliminary interrogation indicated the two allegedly maintained links with Wangjen Pantha and the NSCN (IM), provided logistical support, facilitated movement and communication of insurgent cadres, and assisted recruitment-related activities. Inputs also suggested they were planning the movement of an NSCN (K-YA) cadre along with a weapon to an insurgent camp.A security official said the action could yield information on the support structure in the region. “The apprehension is expected to provide important leads regarding the recruitment activities, logistical network and movement of insurgent cadres in the area,” the official said.The operation comes amid heightened focus on the Assam-Arunachal border and eastern Arunachal’s insurgency-affected belt. Tirap, Longding and Changlang—known as the TLC districts—have remained a key concern for security agencies due to the presence and activities of Naga insurgent groups and repeated counter-insurgency operations involving various NSCN factions.
