Security forces have intensified search operations in Nagaland’s Chumoukedima district following an improvised explosive device (IED) blast that killed an Assam Rifles havildar and injured four other security personnel and a civilian.According to a Defence spokesperson, additional teams of the Assam Rifles and Nagaland Police have been deployed in and around the Sukhovi area to trace those responsible for the attack, which took place on Monday during an operational movement. The deceased was identified as Havildar Mohd Iqbal of the 28 Assam Rifles. A native of Kallar Mohra village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, he had joined the force in April 2003 and was posted at the Assam Rifles Training Centre and School in Sukhovi. He is survived by his wife, Nasim Akther.
Officials said the blast occurred when Assam Rifles personnel were travelling in a mini truck. Four injured personnel are undergoing treatment and are reported to be in stable condition. A civilian standing near the site also sustained a leg injury after being hit by debris from the explosion. An autorickshaw parked nearby was completely damaged in the blast. A wreath-laying ceremony in honour of Havildar Iqbal was scheduled to be held at the Assam Rifles Training Centre and School in Sukhovi on Tuesday before his mortal remains were sent to his native village for the last rites. Meanwhile, the NSCN/GPRN (NSCN-IM) condemned the attack, describing it as a “cowardly terrorist act” aimed at disturbing peace in the region.
In a statement, the organisation said the use of improvised explosive devices and anti-personnel mines could not be justified under any circumstances. It said such attacks not only endanger the lives of security personnel but also pose a serious threat to civilians, spread fear among the public and undermine the peace that the people of the region have worked to preserve. The NSCN-IM also distanced itself from the incident and said it would ascertain the facts surrounding the explosion to identify those responsible. It appealed to the public not to speculate about the incident and urged cooperation with the authorities to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
