Staff Reporter
DIMAPUR, JUL 4 (NPN): NSCN (I-M) UT-1 on Saturday clarified that the July 3 incident at Burma Camp area, Dimapur, was not a factional matter but part of its “War against Drugs”, alleging that shots were allegedly fired by a senior functionary of GPRN/NSCN (U) during an anti-drug operation.
Addressing the media at the CAO’s residence here, UT-1 secretary Solomon Sema said the incident occurred while UT personnel were attempting to intercept suspected drug peddlers and was not directed against any organisation or faction.
According to Solomon, UT personnel first apprehended one Kughalo Chishi (45) after receiving information about the delivery of SP tablets. During interrogation, Kughalo allegedly identified Toakwang Konyak (31) as the supplier.
Acting on the information, he said UT personnel proceeded to Niu Colony, where Toakwang was reportedly found at the residence of one Richard Achumi, son of ‘maj. gen.’ Hevuto Achumi of GPRN/NSCN (U) (Neokpao-Alezo). He added that Hevuto and his son resided nearby.
Solomon alleged that UT personnel found individuals consuming drugs, including “Sunflower, SP tablets and Alprazolam”. He further alleged that as the team attempted to act, Hevuto locked the gate, obstructed the personnel, allegedly opened fire and physically assaulted them.
Following the incident, Solomon said additional UT members rushed to the spot after learning of the incident, but he personally intervened to defuse the situation. He said an AK-56 rifle was seized from Hevuto’s bodyguard during the confrontation and that the matter was subsequently reported to the higher authorities of NSCN (I-M).
Denying allegations circulating in sections of the media, Solomon maintained that UT personnel neither kidnapped anyone nor took the alleged Rs 20,000, terming the claims false.
He also claimed that Toakwang was brought to the UT office, where he allegedly confessed that the drugs had been purchased from Richard Achumi.
Solomon further alleged that Richard Achumi was not only a drug user but also a major drug dealer, claiming that UT-1 had records of his alleged involvement since 2023.
He also referred to another incident two months ago when UT personnel were allegedly assaulted during a verification visit to the same residence.
On the seizure of drugs, Solomon said one box of SP tablets was recovered from Kughalo, while SP tablets, Alprazolam and heroin were allegedly recovered from Toakwang. He, however, claimed that the seized items were later taken back by Hevuto during the scuffle.
Responding to a query, Solomon said drug users were generally made to sign bond agreements in the presence of family members and were offered rehabilitation, while stricter measures were taken against drug traffickers.
He also disclosed that UT-1 planned to open a new rehabilitation centre to address the growing drug problem in Naga society.
Reiterating UT-1’s stand, Solomon warned drug peddlers to cease their activities, stating that the group would continue taking strict action against those involved in the drug trade.
On whether any communication had taken place between NSCN (I-M) and GPRN/NSCN (U), he said no high-level communication had been initiated so far regarding the incident.
Meanwhile, functionary of UT-1 Vitoho Chophy alleged that he was physically assaulted by Hevuto during the operation.
“He struck me three times with the butt of a gun and used abusive language against me and the government,” Vitoho claimed.