ULFA-I's Ongoing Operations in Myanmar Despite Decreased Strength

The United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) (ULFA-I) continues to operate three camps in Myanmar, despite a decline in its strength. Recent intelligence reveals that the group is heavily involved in extortion activities along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border, having collected around Rs 6 crore this year. The arrest of their operation commander, Rupam Asom, has led to further depletion of their ranks, with many members expressing dissatisfaction over the harsh living conditions in the camps. This article delves into the current state of ULFA-I, its operations, and the challenges faced by its cadres.
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ULFA-I's Ongoing Operations in Myanmar Despite Decreased Strength

ULFA-I's Presence in Myanmar


Guwahati, June 21: The United Liberation Front of Asom (Independent) (ULFA-I), despite a reduction in its numbers, continues to operate three camps within Myanmar. The militant group is primarily engaged in extortion activities along the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border.


Law enforcement and security personnel have gathered crucial intelligence regarding the group's operations following the capture of Rupam Asom, the outfit's 'operation commander,' near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border.


According to police sources, during his interrogation, Rupam disclosed the group's extortion efforts, revealing that they have amassed approximately Rs 6 crore this year.


The majority of these funds were collected from the border regions, as the group's members are hesitant to venture further into Assam. However, they remain unaware of how the collected money is utilized.


The primary camp of ULFA(I) in Myanmar is situated deep within the country and serves as the general mobile headquarters, overseen by senior leader Michael Deka Phukan. This camp houses most of the group's members and conducts some training for new recruits.


Another significant camp, referred to as the 'Eastern camp,' is led by Nayan Asom, although it is currently experiencing minimal activity.


The 'Arakan camp,' also known as 'camp 779,' is the most active and is managed by Arunodoi Asom. Members from this camp frequently travel to India to extort money and kidnap traders or their employees, and they are also involved in violent acts.


Police sources indicate that Rupam was affiliated with the Arakan camp and participated in the group's operations.


It has been reported that a 10-member team, led by Rupam, crossed into India from Myanmar in February to gather funds and potentially launch operations. However, three members surrendered at the earliest opportunity, significantly reducing the group's strength.


Rupam's arrest has further diminished their numbers, and it is believed that the remaining members are still in Arunachal Pradesh.


Rupam has expressed to police and security forces that there is considerable dissatisfaction among the cadres due to the harsh conditions in the camps, suggesting that many may surrender if given the chance.


Many new recruits joined the militant group with high hopes, but upon arriving in Myanmar, they faced harsh realities, including living in jungles with severe shortages of basic necessities like food and clothing, along with competition among the leadership to gain favor with outfit chief Paresh Baruah.


Sources indicate that Rupam was once favored by Paresh Baruah due to his operational skills, but he has not had contact with Baruah for the past four to five years.


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