NSCN-KYA Militant Killed in Gunfight with Assam Rifles in Arunachal

In a fierce gun battle near the Indo-Myanmar border in Arunachal Pradesh’s Longding district, Assam Rifles troops from the Wakka Company Operating Base (COB), under the Khonsa Battalion, successfully repelled a surprise ambush by suspected cadres of the NSCN-KYA faction, killing one militant, reports said. 

The incident reportedly took place during a routine patrol between Khogla and Lyangche villages, deep within the jungle terrain close to the international boundary.

The patrol came under sudden and intense fire from insurgents lying in wait. Demonstrating quick reflexes and operational precision, the Assam Rifles personnel launched an immediate counter-attack, forcing the insurgents to flee and abandon their position.

Following the encounter, a thorough search of the area led to the recovery of the body of the slain NSCN-KYA cadre, believed to be a Burmese national. Troops also uncovered a well-concealed temporary insurgent hideout and seized a large cache of arms, explosives, communication devices, and other war-like stores, revealing the group’s plans for possible sabotage operations in the region.

Among the items recovered from the site were five improvised explosive devices (IEDs) weighing a total of 15 kilograms, along with one large IED battery set comprising eight units and five smaller IED batteries. Security forces also seized 34 detonators, 10 Cordex wires, and 200 meters of wiring used for fabricating and deploying IEDs. A Chinese grenade was also recovered, in addition to two .22mm pistols and one .32mm pistol, along with their corresponding magazines. Ammunition recovered included 14 live rounds of .22mm, 28 live rounds of 7.62mm, 32 additional 7.62mm bullets, and nine spent cartridges of the same calibre.

Communication equipment, including two walkie-talkies and a Nokia mobile phone, was found, along with two Indian and two Burmese SIM cards. Security personnel also recovered ₹21,000 in Indian currency and 500 Burmese Kyat. 

Incriminating documents included seven blank extortion notes and one filled note, 80 paper flags bearing the “Naga Independence” slogan, and another 80 flags commemorating the 78th Naga Independence Day. A 50-leaf indent receipt booklet was also found. Further, the cache included logistical supplies such as 20 kilograms of ration, 30 packets of assorted food items, five utensils, a beer bottle, and two strips of opium. Combat gear consisting of clothing, Burma-made shoes, torchlight, mugs, lighters, and other utility items was seized, along with a Bible and four backpacks.

The seizure, both in scale and nature, points to the insurgents’ intent to escalate subversive and extortion activities in the region. The timely action by the Assam Rifles not only thwarted a potential ambush but also dealt a significant blow to the operational capability of the NSCN-KYA.

The operation deals a major blow to insurgent networks and reinforces the rule of law along India’s sensitive frontier regions. It also underscores the unwavering commitment of the Assam Rifles to safeguarding the nation’s borders. The courage and professionalism demonstrated by the troops of Wakka Company Operating Base stand as a powerful testament to their dedication to maintaining peace and ensuring the security of the region.

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