HT Correspondent
DIBRUGARH, Feb 20: Security forces arrested an NSCN-IM cadre and recovered arms and ammunition during a joint operation in Longding district of Arunachal Pradesh on Friday, officials said.
The operation was carried out by a joint team of the Assam Rifles, Special Task Force and Longding police at Tissing near Zedua village under Longding police station limits.
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During the operation, security personnel apprehended an active NSCN-IM cadre identified as SS Captain Ponglem Wangpan (35), a resident of Longsom village in Longding district.
Officials said the forces recovered one 5.56 mm INSAS rifle, one 9 mm pistol, one INSAS magazine, one pistol magazine, 18 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition and two rounds of 9 mm ammunition from his possession.
According to security sources, Wangpan was leading a group of four cadres who had reportedly entered the area with the intention of carrying out a kidnapping or targeted attack.
The timely action by the joint forces prevented a possible militant incident, they said.
An FIR has been registered at Longding police station under relevant sections of the Arms Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and further investigation is underway.
Security forces have also launched combing and search operations in nearby areas to track down other members of the group.
