Security forces on Tuesday intensified search operations in Nagaland’s Chumoukedima district, a day after an improvised explosive device (IED) blast near Sukhovi claimed the life of an Assam Rifles jawan and injured four other personnel along with a civilian.
According to a Defence spokesperson, additional teams of the Assam Rifles and Nagaland Police have been deployed to trace those responsible for the attack, which occurred on Monday when Assam Rifles personnel were travelling in a mini truck.
The deceased has been identified as Havildar Mohd Iqbal of the 28 Assam Rifles, who was posted at the Assam Rifles Training Centre and School in Sukhovi. A resident of Kallar Mohra village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, Havildar Iqbal joined the force in April 2003. He is survived by his wife, Nasim Akther.
The Defence spokesperson said the four injured Assam Rifles personnel are in stable condition. A civilian standing near the blast site also suffered a leg injury after being hit by debris from the explosion, while an autorickshaw was completely damaged.
A wreath-laying ceremony in honour of Havildar Iqbal is scheduled to be held later on Tuesday at the Assam Rifles Training Centre and School in Sukhovi.
Meanwhile, the NSCN/GPRN (NSCN-IM) condemned the attack, describing it as a “cowardly terrorist act” intended to disrupt peace in the region. In a statement, the outfit said the use of IEDs and anti-personnel mines could not be justified as such attacks endanger civilian lives, create fear among the public and undermine the peace process.
The NSCN-IM also distanced itself from the incident, stating that it would ascertain the facts surrounding the blast and identify those responsible. It appealed to the public to avoid speculation and cooperate with authorities to ensure those behind the attack are brought to justice.
No militant organisation has claimed responsibility for the blast so far.
