Security forces fired at by ultras in Londging district of Arunachal Pradesh

TEZPUR: After receiving intelligence inputs during the last few days regarding movement and activities of NSCN (IM) cadres at Pumao village in Longding district of Arunachal Pradesh, Army personnel on May 16, launched a search operation in the area across Pumao. However, villagers started protesting against the security forces and also resorted to stone pelting, stated a release.

"There was a gathering of villagers which started protesting against security forces and resorted to stone pelting. Troops identified suspicious movement and started moving towards a house which drew two to three bursts of fire on the Army party. Civilians were told to disperse and to safeguard lives and property. Controlled retaliation was resorted by firing eight single shots.

"In this melee, the insurgents managed to escape. However, in this crossfire it is believed that a few villagers got hurt and one villager expired. Indian Army offers condolences to family of the deceased villager.

"Many Army soldiers also got injured due to stone pelting by supporters of NSCN (IM)", the release added.