Assam: One suspected ULFA-I linkman, cop injured during exchange of fire

A suspected linkman of the United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) was injured during an exchange of fire between suspected cadre and police in Assam’s Dibrugarh district, officials said on Sunday.

The incident took place in Moran area of the district. The linkman has been identified as Hem Chetia.

According to report, the linkman has been charged with extortion of money from several people to the tune of over Rs. 23 lakhs.

During the firing, Khowang police station OC Rana Nath also sustained injuries.

Taking to Twitter, the Assam Director General of Police (DGP) GP Singh said, “In the recent past extortion demands have been received by some business persons in Upper Assam in the name of banned organisation ULFA [irrespective of genuine or fake]. Police has apprehended some persons while collecting such money. One of them has been injured today in shoot out while trying to flee by attacking police personnel.”

“It may please be informed that collection of money in the name of ULFA [irrespective of genuine or fake] attracts the provision of Sections 17,21,24,26,39 & 40 of the UAP Act since ULFA is a banned terrorist organisation”, Singh tweeted.

“These provisions are for collection of funds, using proceeds of terrorism etc and may lead to forfeiture of property of the persons involved in collection of funds for ULFA [irrespective of claims of genuine or fake] Concerned District Police and Security forces have been directed to take firm action against any person involved in making extortion demands and/or collection of such demanded money”, DGP further said in the tweet.

“Assam police would not let the economic development of the state be held hostage by such persons and take ruthless action per law. People are advised not to be part of such collection of extortion/demanded money”, Singh said.

Currently, Chetia and the injured cop are admitted to Assam Medical College and Hospital (AMCH) in Dibrugarh for treatment.

Also Read: Assam: ULFA-I woman linkman arrested with Rs 3 lakh in Dibrugarh