Today, a convoy of three Assam Rifles vehicles fell under attack near Namdhang while traveling from Changlang to Margherita between 8 and 8:30 am on April 16. Despite the surprise assault, the troops managed to retaliate effectively, preventing further harm. However, Hawaldar Om Prakash sustained bullet injuries during the encounter.
In a press statement, Rumel Axom, a self-proclaimed captain of ULFA-I, claimed responsibility for the attack. Axom alleged that several Assam Rifles vehicles were damaged, and multiple soldiers were seriously injured. He further asserted that media access to the area was restricted by security forces to conceal the true extent of the damage. However, this claim is contradicted by reports of wounded soldiers being airlifted for medical treatment, as per ULFA-I’s account.
While the defence establishment has yet to officially respond to ULFA-I’s claims, insiders have refuted allegations of media censorship. They emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of affected personnel and addressing current operational needs.
Assam Rifles, in response to the incident, stated, “A vehicle-mounted patrol of three vehicles of Assam Rifles moving from Changlang towards Margherita was ambushed by unknown personnel near Namdhang at around 08:30 am on April 16. The troops retaliated and thwarted the ambush. In the process, one person sustained gunshot wounds. The individual has been evacuated to Military Hospital Jorhat, and his condition is stable. Further details will follow.”
The ambush near Namdhang sheds light on the unstable security situation in the region, particularly along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border. The incident, accompanied by conflicting reports from defense sources and insurgent groups, underscores the challenges faced by security forces in combating militancy while ensuring transparency and information dissemination.