Imphal, July 06 2009: The United National Liberation Front (UNLF) has asserted that one of its MPA cadres, 'Sgt Maj' Khoirom Echen alias Ratankumar (MPA No 889) was killed by a combined team of Thoubal Police commando and 34 AR in a 'fake encounter'.

A UNLF statement issued by its senior publicity officer, Ksh Yoiheiba stated that there were several witnesses to the arrest of 'Sgt Maj' Echen son of Kh Irabot of Moidangpok Khunjao Awang Leikai when he was arrested by a team of IOF on a road at Yairipok early yesterday morning.

He was killed after taking him to a secluded place at a road leading to Kabrang, the statement pointed out.

Refuting the claim of the Additional SP of Thoubal police that arms and ammunitions were recovered from his possession, the statement observed that Echan was without arms at the time of his arrest.

Stating that Echan was a committed cadre of the MPA, the statement stated his demise is a great loss in the liberation movement.

The outfit also joins in sharing the grief of the bereaved family members while praying for his soul to rest in peace.