In a major success against insurgency in Arunachal Pradesh, security forces rescued a kidnapped construction worker and neutralized three militants during an intense encounter in Longding district. The incident has once again highlighted the persistent security challenges faced in the remote border regions of the state. According to officials, two construction workers were abducted late on Friday night, April 25, from the Pongchau area in Longding district. Following the abduction, security agencies swiftly launched a coordinated search operation after receiving specific intelligence inputs regarding the hostages’ location. On April 27, troops from the Indian Army and Assam Rifles moved into the dense forested areas of the Pangchau region. During the operation, security forces encountered armed militants belonging to the NSCN (KYA) faction. A fierce gun battle ensued, resulting in the neutralization of three insurgents.
In the aftermath of the firefight, security personnel recovered four automatic weapons, a large quantity of ammunition, and various other war-like stores from the militants’ possession. The successful seizure dealt a significant blow to insurgent activities in the region. One of the kidnapped construction workers was safely rescued during the operation. Authorities confirmed that the rescued worker was in stable condition and is currently receiving medical attention. Search efforts are continuing to locate the second abducted individual, with security forces combing through difficult and heavily forested terrain. “The successful rescue and neutralization of insurgents demonstrate the unwavering commitment of our security forces to maintain peace and security in the region,” an official spokesperson said.
Security has been tightened across Longding district in the aftermath of the incident. Additional forces have been deployed to prevent any retaliatory actions by militant groups and to reassure the local population. Longding, which shares a sensitive border with Myanmar, has long been a hotspot for insurgent activities, with various factions often using the rugged terrain for cross-border movements and hideouts. The swift and effective response by the Indian Army and Assam Rifles has been widely appreciated by local residents and state authorities alike. As the search for the second kidnapped worker continues, security forces have vowed to maintain pressure on insurgent groups operating in the region, ensuring the safety and security of civilians engaged in development projects.
