Surrender – Assam Rifles Operation Leads Militant to Lay Down Arms
Surrender – The Khonsa Battalion of the Assam Rifles carried out a targeted operation on Tuesday following credible intelligence about the presence of a hardened underground member in the Moktowa area of the Tirap district.
Militant Gives Up Arms in Khonsa
Security officials said the operation was carefully planned and executed after receiving precise inputs. Instead of resorting to force, troops engaged in sustained dialogue and persuasion, eventually convincing the individual to renounce violence and return to civilian life.
The militant surrendered at the battalion headquarters in Khonsa. Authorities identified him as Wangkhu Lowang, 32, who described himself as a Lieutenant in the NSCN-K (Khango Konyak) faction. He is a resident of Moktowa village in the Dadam area of Tirap district.
During the surrender process, Lowang handed over a 7.65 mm pistol along with a magazine and six live rounds of ammunition, officials confirmed.
Focus on Rehabilitation and Stability
Security officials described the surrender as a reflection of the growing impact of intelligence-led operations combined with efforts to rehabilitate those who choose to abandon insurgency. They emphasized that security forces are increasingly focusing on dialogue and outreach to encourage members of armed groups to return to the mainstream.
The Assam Rifles, working alongside other agencies, reiterated its commitment to restoring lasting peace and stability in the region. Officials stated that such initiatives aim not only to curb insurgent activity but also to provide opportunities for reintegration, particularly for youth drawn into extremist movements.
Joint Operations Intensified in Manipur
In a separate development, coordinated operations were conducted across several districts of Manipur between February 1 and 7. The Indian Army and Assam Rifles units under the Spear Corps worked closely with Manipur Police to carry out intelligence-based missions in Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Tengnoupal, Bishnupur, and Pherzawl districts.
According to an official release, these joint efforts led to the arrest of seven cadres associated with both hill-based and valley-based insurgent groups. Security forces also recovered 18 weapons, along with explosives and other materials described as war-like stores.
Arrest in Mayang Imphal
On February 1, acting on specific intelligence, Assam Rifles personnel and Thoubal Police Commandos launched a joint operation in the Mayang Imphal area of Imphal West district. During the operation, one active cadre linked to the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (SOREPA) was apprehended.
Officials reported the seizure of a smartphone along with a SIM card from the individual. Authorities are examining the device for further leads.
Arms and Explosives Seized Near Tonglhang
The following day, February 2, another coordinated operation by Assam Rifles and Manipur Police uncovered a concealed insurgent hideout near Tonglhang village. The search operation resulted in the recovery of a substantial cache of arms and explosives.
Among the items seized were one AK-47 rifle, two pistols, two single-barrel rifles, and three radio communication sets. Security personnel also found eighteen improvised explosive devices (IEDs), along with various rounds of ammunition, including 9 mm and 7.62 mm cartridges. Bundles of wire and several spent cartridge cases were also recovered from the site.
All 18 IEDs were safely destroyed at the location in accordance with standard operating procedures. Officials stated that the remnants of the destroyed explosives weighed approximately 2.5 kilograms.
Continued Vigilance Across the Region
Security agencies have maintained that intelligence-driven operations remain central to maintaining order in sensitive areas of the Northeast. Officials added that close coordination between the Army, Assam Rifles, and state police forces has strengthened operational effectiveness and reduced the scope for militant regrouping.
Authorities have indicated that similar operations will continue as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard civilian life and ensure long-term stability in the region.