AR scalps NSCN (IM) cadre
Source: The Sangai Express / NNN
Senapati/Imphal, December 21 2012:
One NSCN-IM Tatar (member of Parliament) was killed by 43 Assam Rifles in Sadar Hills of Senapati district today.
The deceased has been identified as Apao Kipgen a younger brother of former MLA Haokholet Kipgen.
There have been contradictory stories coming in regarding the cirscumstances that led to the killing of the NSCN-IM Tatar.
While Assam Rifles contend that he was killed in an encounter, family members insist that he was picked up from his house.
According to a statement issued by PIB (Defence Wing), a search operation was launched from Kangpokpi post on getting specific information regarding presence of armed UGs in Choungoubung village, close to Kangpokpi in Senapati district.
On being surrounded, the UG opened fire at the security forces in an attempt to escape but the security forces retaliated with effective fire resulting in neutralisation of the UG.
The Kangpokpi Police immediately reached the site on being informed by the security forces.
One self loading rifle (SLR) with ammunition and one pistol with ammunition were recovered from the slain person, the release added.
According to Apao Kipgen's family members, personnel of 43 Assam Rifles picked up Apao Kipgen (53) from his house at Henbung and killed him near Tasar Farm between T.Khullen and Chungoubung, Sadar Hills area under Senapati district.
The police found the dead body of Apao Kipgen at around 1.30 pm.
Eye witnesses said bullet marks were seen all over Apao Kipgen's body.