Security forces arrested an active cadre of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) [NSCN (IM)] during a special operation near Ledo on August 28, officials said. The operation, launched by the 20 Assam Rifles on intelligence inputs about an NSCN (IM) operative allegedly involved in weapons-related activity and extortion, resulted in the apprehension of the individual at about 6:35 pm.
The detained man was identified as SS Sergeant Major Yangsin Khocha, a resident of Phangsun village under Namtok police station in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Security personnel recovered a mobile phone and a carry bag from his possession, officials said.
Preliminary interrogation reportedly yielded information on the movement of other cadres in the area and their alleged plans targeting security forces. Authorities said Khocha was operating under the direction of a previously arrested NSCN (K-YA) cadre, SS Captain Yumsen Kongkang, suggesting a possible link between the two within the insurgent network.
During questioning, Khocha allegedly disclosed details of the infiltration of cadres into the Changlang area, including reports that weapons were being moved alongside personnel and that the cadres were planning attacks on security forces. Officials also said he admitted to helping funnel extortion proceeds to senior cadres.
Further investigations are under way to verify the information obtained during the preliminary interrogation and to identify other individuals connected to the network, authorities added.
