Extortion on NHs on the rise
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, June 11 2011:
Extortion by UGs operating along NH 53 are on the rise.
According to truckers UG groups like the NSCN (IM), NSCN(K) and NNC (Federal Government of Nagaland) are collecting ' 500 each per trip per loaded truck plying on this section of the national highway.
The amount is collected by cadres of the three outfits who also collect ' 8000 per truck as "annual tax", drivers complained.
The money is collected from trucks plying without security escort at Noney, Awang Khul and Kambirong area of NH 53, according to the drivers.
They take advantage of trucks stranded midway due to mechanical snags.
Some drivers disclosed that when they were stranded at the Barak area of the highway where CRPF is deployed, the CRPF did nothing to prevent forced collection of money from the truckers.
When they complained, the CRPF reportedly told the truckers they were there only to protect the bridge.
On NH 39 extortions by NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) along NH 39 has risen in the last few months.
They are collecting "goods tax, "road tax" and others which they impose on trucks.