AR rescues two non-locals

Kohima, Mar 1: In a major achievement, personnel of 26 Assam Rifles Kohima on Saturday managed to rescue two non-local businessmen reportedly abducted by unidentified NSCN-K cadres on February 26 last. Assam Rifles sources revealed that on receipt of reliable intelligence report that the two abducted businessmen would be brought to Axis Bank Kohima for withdrawal of ransom money, personnel of 26 Assam Rifles laid a trap within the vicinity of Axis Bank, Opposite Kohima College this morning. All suspected entry and exit routes were kept under surveillance and a tight dragnet was established to apprehend the culprits, sources said.Subsequently, at around 11:00 am on Saturday, the Assam Rifles tracked some persons moving suspiciously in close proximity with two non-locals. As the group entered the bank, 26 Assam Rifles personnel challenged them, which created panic and taking advantage of the heavily crowded market place the miscreants managed to escape. However, the Assam Rifles team present on the spot exercised utmost restraint to avoid any collateral damage and did not resort to any firing, sources said, adding however swift action ensured that the two non-local businessmen identified as M Gurung and S Dey were rescued from the clutches of the abductors.Sources also said that on interrogation it was found confirmed that the two individuals were abducted on February 26 by suspected NSCN-K cadres and were kept under captivity. An undisclosed ransom amount was agreed upon to be paid by the individuals for assured safe release which led the group to Axis Bank on Saturday.Meanwhile, Assam Rifles authorities has stated that a strict round the clock vigil is being maintained in Kohima to thwart any attempt of underground groups to violate laid down cease fire ground rules (CFGR) or vitiate peace and tranquillity in civilian area. It has also warned of adopting stringent measures against any miscreants to ensure that peace and security prevails in Nagaland.