39 NDFB(S) militants arrested since December massacre

Anti-insurgency measures by security forces have led to the arrest of 39 militants belonging to the banned organisation National Democratic Front of Bodoland (Songbijit faction) and 8 linkmen in Assam.

Security forces have come down especially hard on the separatist militants since the massacre in December, in which members of the NDFB(S) opened fire on innocent villagers in the Sonitpur, Kokrajhar and Chirang districts of Assam, leaving over 80 people killed.

Inspector General of Police LR Bishnoi told the media that security forces have gunned down a most wanted terrorist in the Kokrajhar district and have captured several high profile terrorists, including the self styled Joint Publicity Secretary, platoon commander of Panbari among others.

According to reports, the National Investigating Agency (NIA), which is investigating the recent violence, is likely to interrogate some of arrested terrorists.

After the attacks on December 23, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had termed the spate of violence 'an act of crafted terror', confirming that operations will be launched against the NDFB(S).

In a meeting with Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi and other senior state officials, Singh had assured that the NIA will probe the case thoroughly. The ministers also stated that the Centre will provide Assam with additional companies of security forces.