Tinsukia (Assam), 28 June (HS): Assam Police has foiled a major alleged terror plot linked to the banned insurgent outfit ULFA (Independent), arresting four persons, including two active cadres and two alleged logistical supporters, during intelligence-based operations in Tinsukia district.

Tinsukia Superintendent of Police Mayank Kumar said two self-styled ULFA (I) second lieutenants—Siyor Asom alias Humenjyoti Barua (27) and Manoj Asom alias Papu Moran (30)—were apprehended on June 26 during a joint intelligence-led operation by Tinsukia Police, central agencies, and security forces at Jagun under Lekhapani Police Station. Both had reportedly joined the outfit in 2018 and were allegedly involved in several militant activities.

According to the SP, interrogation of the two accused revealed that they were planning an indiscriminate firing and grenade attack targeting civilians in Tinsukia town. Police said timely intervention by the security forces successfully thwarted the planned attack, while security has been intensified across the district.

During the operation, security personnel recovered two AK-series rifles, 172 rounds of ammunition, two grenades, backpacks, jungle survival equipment, food supplies, medicines and cash from the possession of the accused.

In a follow-up operation, police arrested Bitu Bora of Panitola and Kalpa Bora on charges of providing logistical support to the militant outfit. Investigators alleged that a Swift car (AR-20A-5892) owned by Bitu Bora was used by the arrested ULFA (I) cadres. Kalpa Bora, who serves as Assistant General Secretary of the All Assam Matak Yuva Chatra Parishad, has also been accused of aiding the banned outfit.

Police sources said both alleged supporters confessed during questioning that the seized vehicle had been arranged at the instruction of senior ULFA (I) cadre Aseng Asom. Further investigation is underway to identify others linked to the alleged conspiracy and the wider support network, while security remains on high alert across Tinsukia district.---------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash