Assam Police Thwart Planned Terror Attack, Arrest Two ULFA(I) Cadres

In a decisive operation, Assam Police, alongside central security agencies, arrested two suspected ULFA(I) cadres in Tinsukia district, thwarting a planned terror attack. The suspects, identified as Homenjyoti Baruah and Papu Moran, were apprehended with significant weaponry and ammunition. Investigators believe they aimed to instill fear among civilians through indiscriminate firing. The police are currently interrogating the suspects to uncover their connections to previous militant activities and any potential broader conspiracy. This operation highlights ongoing security efforts to combat insurgent threats in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 27, 2026, 16:15 IST

Joint Operation Leads to Arrests

Suspected ULFA(I) cadres Homenjyoti Baruah alias Chinar Asom (27) and Papu Moran alias Manoj Asom (30). (AT Photo)

Jorhat, June 27: In a significant operation, Assam Police, in collaboration with central security forces, apprehended two suspected members of the banned United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) [ULFA(I)] in Tinsukia district, effectively preventing what authorities believe was a planned terrorist act.

The operation took place on Friday night in Jagun, close to the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border, based on precise intelligence reports.

The suspects have been identified as Homenjyoti Baruah, also known as Chinar Asom (27), from Panitola, and Papu Moran, referred to as Manoj Asom (30), from Baghjan. Both individuals are recognized as self-proclaimed second lieutenants of the outlawed group.

Tinsukia Senior Superintendent of Police, Mayank Kumar, stated that the arrests were made following coordinated intelligence efforts from various agencies.

"On June 26, we acted on specific intelligence from security agencies and arrested the two ULFA(I) members during a special operation. We seized two AK-56 rifles, 173 rounds of live ammunition, two hand grenades, syringes, food supplies, and other items from them. Initial investigations suggest they were preparing for indiscriminate firing aimed at causing maximum casualties and instilling fear among civilians," Kumar explained.

Investigators revealed that the suspects had recently entered Assam after crossing from Myanmar via Jairampur in Arunachal Pradesh before heading towards Tinsukia.

Based on intelligence inputs, police had been monitoring their movements for some time before intercepting the hatchback they were traveling in at Jagun Bazaar.

During the operation, security forces also discovered syringes, opioid-based medications, and other materials believed to be intended for prolonged concealment in forested areas.

"The militants were well-equipped to remain hidden for an extended period while conducting their activities," the official noted.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the duo was assigned by ULFA(I) to carry out indiscriminate attacks on civilians in Tinsukia town to create widespread panic.

SP Kumar confirmed that a case has been registered at Lekhapani Police Station (Case No. 42/2026) under relevant sections of the Arms Act, Explosive Substances Act, and other applicable laws.

"The two suspects are also believed to have connections to several previous militant attacks in Assam. Their interrogation is ongoing to determine their involvement in past incidents and to identify other members of their network," the SSP added.

Officials noted that the operational strategy, the route taken by the suspects, and the advanced weaponry recovered suggest a meticulously planned mission.

Investigators are looking into whether local support facilitated the operation or if external elements played a role in the militants' movement into Assam. However, police have clarified that these aspects are still under investigation and have not been independently verified.

The apprehended militants have been taken to Tinsukia, where they are undergoing intensive interrogation to uncover a potential broader conspiracy.