Changlang, Jan 7: Tensions ran high in Longvi village of Changlang district after suspected cadres of the NSCN and ULFA abducted two supervisors involved in the timber business and set a timber truck on fire in a remote jungle area near the village on January 6.
The incident reportedly occurred between 1 PM and 2 PM when five armed militants—three from the NSCN and two from ULFA—stormed a timber camp. Eyewitnesses claim the ULFA cadres fired at the truck before torching it.
Security forces, including a joint team of the district police and the 10th Assam Rifles stationed in Nampong, launched an immediate search and rescue operation after receiving information about the abduction. The team also visited the incident site today to gather evidence and strengthen security in the area.
Sources suggest the attack might be linked to a warning issued by the NSCN last year, demanding an end to illegal logging and deforestation in the Patkai range. Despite this directive, timber operations reportedly continued, potentially provoking the recent act of violence. Villagers, however, claim ignorance of any such notice or restrictions from the NSCN.
The incident has left the local population alarmed. Residents voiced their concerns about the rising insecurity in the region, drawing parallels to the 2020 crossfire between the Indian Army and NSCN militants during the Pangsau Pass International Festival held between Jagun and Jairampur.
With the 2025 edition of the Pangsau Pass International Festival scheduled to take place in Nampong from January 20-22, the incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of attendees. The site of the abduction lies close to the India-Myanmar border, adding to the complexity of the situation, said villagers.
