Guwahati, July 17: An active cadre of the banned NSCN-R outfit, holding the self-styled rank of Lieutenant Colonel, surrendered before security forces in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tirap district on Friday, marking another setback for insurgent groups operating in the region.

The surrendered militant, identified as Penngam Konyak (42), a resident of Nyasa village in Nagaland’s Mon district, laid down arms at the office of the Superintendent of Police in Khonsa. He surrendered in the presence of officials from Tirap Police, 44 Assam Rifles, and the 36 Battalion of the CRPF.

Officials said Konyak handed over a pistol along with live ammunition during the surrender.
A senior police officer described the surrender as the outcome of sustained counter-insurgency operations and continued engagement by security forces.

“This surrender reflects the sustained efforts of the security forces and police in promoting peace, stability and security in Tirap district. It also reinforces the collective commitment towards restoring harmony and creating an environment conducive to development and progress in the region,” the officer said.

Officials of the 44 Assam Rifles said the surrender indicates the weakening influence of insurgent groups, with an increasing number of cadres opting to return to the mainstream.

They attributed the development to coordinated operations by the Army, Assam Rifles, CRPF and Arunachal Pradesh Police, coupled with community outreach initiatives in the Tirap-Changlang-Longding (TCL) districts.

Eastern Arunachal Pradesh has witnessed intensified anti-insurgency operations in recent months, with security forces stepping up efforts to dismantle militant networks and encourage underground cadres to surrender and reintegrate into society.