Imphal, August 23: In a significant operation, the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police have apprehended a key militant from the banned organization, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), who had a bounty of ₹4 lakh on his head.
According to a defense department spokesperson, the 28-year-old Thiam Boycha Singh, also known as Balin, was arrested on Saturday night in Thoubal district’s Ushoi Pokpi.
This successful joint operation was based on precise intelligence provided by the Assam Rifles, which revealed the militant’s presence in Bishnupur district. Security forces launched a targeted search operation on Saturday evening, leading to the capture of this dangerous PLA militant.
During initial questioning, he identified himself as Thiam Boycha Singh, claiming to be a captain in the PLA. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) was actively searching for him, as he is the main accused in the November 13, 2021 attack in Churachandpur district that resulted in the deaths of Colonel Vipul Tripathi, his family members, and several other soldiers.
Further inquiries revealed his involvement in PLA activities, including training, residing for extended periods in a camp in Myanmar, trafficking in war-related supplies, and maintaining connections with other militant groups. The arrested militant was handed over to the Manipur Police at the Lilong police station for further legal action.
An official statement highlighted that this operation exemplifies the excellent coordination and cooperation between the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police in maintaining peace and regional security.
The November 13, 2021 attack in the hilly area of Churachandpur district claimed the lives of Colonel Tripathi, his wife Anuja (36), their son Abir (5), and four other personnel from the paramilitary forces.
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