Dimapur, January 17 (MExN): Situation in Athibung sub-division of Peren district remains extremely tense after rival cadres of the armed groups NSCN/GPRN-Khaplang and GPRN/NSCN-Khole/Kitovi exchanged heavy firing on Monday afternoon. There were no reports of recent shootouts between the two sides on Tuesday but reports say that two cadres of the GPRN/NSCN are under “house arrest” under the custody of NSCN Khaplang.
According to sources the GPRN/NSCN wants to take back the Athibung designated camp, which fell to the control of NSCN (K) cadres on Sunday, January 15 and that a large group of GPRN/NSCN cadres are presently camping at Athibung and Chalkot village, some 15km from Athibung.
There are an unconfirmed number of NSCN Khaplang cadres inside the designated camp. When queried about the possibilities of further armed clashes, an NSCN Khaplang functionary said, “Possible, judging by their desperate provocative stance. On our part we shall pave way for peaceful resolution unless pushed to the edge.” Meanwhile, NSCN (K) sources said that their “military spokesman” Isak Sumi, is safe at Athibung camp and not captured by the GPRN/NSCN as reported.
In another report, two cadres of the GPRN/NSCN were said to have been kept under “house arrest” at Athibung camp by the NSCN (K) but ‘would be released soon.’ This was disclosed by NSCN (K) sources. The two detainees are “safe and sound” and would be released as and when situation comes to normal, it was informed. The two “non-commissioned” cadres have been detained since January 15 when the NSCN (K) cadres reportedly “overran” Athibung camp. The source further said that one “lieutenant” was killed ‘while trying to snatch gun.’
Sporadic exchange of gunfire was also reported on January 16 when the GPRN/NSCN cadres allegedly started firing at NSCN (K) cadres at Athibung camp. The firing lasted from around 2:30 pm till close to 5 pm but no casualty was reported. One vehicle, a Mahindra Bolero, belonging to an NSCN (K) functionary was set ablaze by GPRN/NSCN cadres at a place around 15 km away from Athibung, reports said. The situation was reported to be under control, but tense, with the presence of Assam Rifles and the Indian Reserve (NAP).
Also, GPRN/NSCN sources said that there was ‘no question of Athibung camp being “overrun”’ but that some of its men have been ‘bought’ by the rival group which wants to convert it into a “K camp.” “But that is not happening,” the source added. It stated that the NSCN Khaplang cadres were inside Athibung camp and threatening cadres who still ‘owe allegiance to GPRN/NSCN.’
The GPRN/NSCN source also confirmed the exchange of gunfire with the NSCN (K) on Monday but said there was no casualty and situation was a “little bit quiet now.” The source added that a Mahindra Bolero belonging to the NSCN (K) was burned on Monday, along with some holsters and ammunition inside the vehicle. Further, the GPRN/NSCN source said that some of its cadres reached Athibung but the presence of Indian security forces had prevented them from entering the camp.
