Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, June 24:
The Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC) has expressed concern over the outcome of a security operation conducted in the Leilon Vaiphei area on June 21, alleging that a significant opportunity to apprehend armed militants was lost despite reports that they had been surrounded by security forces.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the committee questioned the circumstances under which an operation reportedly involving personnel of the COBRA unit of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Assam Rifles concluded without any major arrests. The operation was said to have targeted armed cadres belonging to the KNF(P), UKNA and KRA.
According to the FNCC, security personnel came under attack during the operation and responded with gunfire and explosives. The committee claimed that the operation had presented an opportunity to apprehend individuals allegedly involved in the abduction of 18 Naga civilians and the killing of six Naga persons.
The committee alleged that the operation later shifted towards efforts to secure a negotiated surrender following the intervention of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen. It further claimed that communications were made with senior political and security authorities, including top Assam Rifles officials, military commanders and the Chief Minister, leading to repeated extensions of deadlines.
The FNCC expressed particular concern over reports that the operation was eventually withdrawn despite claims that the militants had been effectively encircled. It alleged that the withdrawal enabled the armed cadres to move to KNF(P) camps and adjoining areas.
Questioning the outcome of the operation, the committee demanded clarity on who authorised the withdrawal and whether any inquiry would be initiated into the circumstances surrounding the alleged escape of the militants.
The FNCC also voiced concern that those allegedly responsible for the abduction of 18 Naga civilians and the killing of six Nagas remain at large. It maintained that the lack of arrests has raised doubts among the public regarding the effectiveness of efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Reiterating its demand for transparency and accountability, the committee urged the authorities to provide a detailed explanation of the operation and take concrete steps to ensure that those responsible for crimes against civilians are brought before the law.
The committee stated that public confidence in the rule of law depends on impartial and effective action against all armed groups operating in the state.