In a decisive blow to terrorist networks along India’s northeastern frontier, security forces arrested a key NSCN-IM militant in Arunachal Pradesh’s Longding district on Friday. The joint operation, spearheaded by Assam Rifles, Special Task Force, and local police, foiled what could have been a major terror attack.
Acting on precise intelligence, the team zeroed in on Tising near Jua village under Longding police station limits. They apprehended self-styled Captain Ponglem Wangpan, aged 35, who was leading a four-member squad armed to the teeth. The haul included a 5.56 mm INSAS rifle with magazine, a 9 mm pistol with magazine, 18 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition, and two 9 mm pistol rounds.
Wangpan and his group had infiltrated the border district with sinister plans to kidnap or assassinate an unidentified target. Swift coordination among forces ensured the plot was dismantled before it could unfold.
An FIR has been registered at Longding police station, with investigations underway to track down the remaining fugitives. Intensified searches are sweeping the district to neutralize lingering threats.
This success underscores the relentless vigilance of security apparatus in countering insurgency in vulnerable border regions. Meanwhile, in a parallel crackdown, Arunachal Pradesh Police seized 133 grams of suspected heroin worth nearly seven lakhs in Namsai district, arresting a woman under NDPS Act. These operations highlight a multi-pronged strategy against terror and narcotics.