Two cadres reportedly belonging to NSCN (I-M) was apprehended by personnel of 37 Assam Rifles near City Tower, Dimapur on January 4, 2016 for allegedly acting in contravention of Ceasefire Ground Rules and extorting money from truck drivers.
In a press release, PRO IGAR (N) stated that the two were held after an operation was launched based on information regarding extortion activities by NSCN (I-M) cadres from truck operators on NH-29.
During conduct of operation, the suspected cadres were intercepted by 37 AR personnel near Clock Tower, Dimapur. On frisking them, PRO said extortion slips and Rs 53,700 in cash were recovered.
One vehicle (Maruti Alto Lxi, Regn No NL 01H 2566), and mobile phones (with SMS messages of truck numbers) were also recovered, stated PRO.
The apprehended individuals have been identified as “sgt.maj” Victor Ningshen, resident of Khamlong, Ukhrul district Manipur and Kuhovi Achumi, resident of Zukiye, Dimapur, a civil wing cadre of NSCN (I-M).
PRO maintained that conduct of the successful operation has highlighted the extortion nexus of NSCN (I-M) from truck operators by using a system of SMS messages. Further, PRO said apprehending the duo has dented the extortion network of NSCN (I-M) in the area and has imposed caution among other underground groups/cadres indulging in such activities.