Ukhrul, September 09: The proscribed UNLF has condoled the demise of its cadre Leichombam Nitaibi alias Katchaba of Tekcham Maning Leikai who was shot dead by a combined team of Thoubal police commandos and 34 Assam Rifles on September 8 morning.

In a statement, the outfit alleged that Katchaba was first arrested from a house and Andro and after interrogating him shot him dead at Salungpham Mayai Leikai.

Refuting the claim of the security forces that he was killed in retaliatory firing, the outfit said that no arms were issued to him at the time of his death.

Condoling the demise of the cadre, UNLF said that he was committed to the cause of the party.

The outfit also shares the grief and pain of the bereaved family members, added the statement.

The outfit further said that deserters who have switched loyalty to the security forces will be remembered as wretched sons of the soil and will be a blot on their lineage.

All deserters are used by the security forces for their own benefits and once they become expendable, they are eliminated, added UNLF.