In a recent operation near the Arunachal-Nagaland border, security forces engaged in a fierce gun battle with suspected Naga insurgents, resulting in the death of three individuals. The incident occurred in a remote area along the Indo-Myanmar border, specifically between Pongchau in the Longding district of Arunachal Pradesh and Longwa in the Mon district of Nagaland.

The deceased are believed to be members of the NSCN-K (Angmai) faction, a Naga insurgent group. Following the encounter, authorities handed over the bodies to the Nagaland Police for identification and further investigation. Additionally, security forces recovered four automatic rifles from the site, indicating the intensity of the firefight.

The operation was launched following reports that a 15-member heavily armed group from the NSCN-K (Angmai) faction had kidnapped two employees of a construction firm from Pongchau on Friday night. The individuals were identified as Janlung Wangpan, 35, and Mohammed Giasuddin, 26. Security forces initiated a search and rescue operation, and acting on intelligence about the insurgents' presence near the border, they mobilized a special operation, including Para special forces.

While Janlung Wangpan has been successfully rescued, the whereabouts of Mohammed Giasuddin remain unknown. Authorities are continuing their efforts to locate him.

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of insurgency in the Naga-dominated regions bordering Myanmar. Various Naga groups have been demanding greater autonomy or secession from India for decades, some engaging in armed struggle. The NSCN-K (Angmai) is one such group that has been actively involved in subversive activities in the region.

The encounter underscores the commitment of security forces to maintain peace and security in the region and combat insurgency. However, it also brings attention to the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of Naga separatism through dialogue and development initiatives. It is crucial to foster trust and understanding between the government and Naga communities to find a lasting solution to the conflict and ensure the well-being of the people in the region.