Assam police have detained four individuals believed to be connected to the recent grenade explosion in Jorhat. The suspects, identified as Rahul Mohan, Dibyajyoti Chetia, Mintu Chetia, and Rintu Nath, were apprehended on suspicion of their involvement in the Jorhat blast.
ULFA-I Connection Suspected
Reports suggest that the police are exploring potential links between the arrested individuals and the banned militant group United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA-I). ULFA-I’s Chief Paresh Baruah had claimed responsibility for the grenade blast near the Lichubari Military camp in Jorhat on December 14. The explosion, believed to be caused by two ULFA-I members on a motorcycle, fortunately, resulted in no human casualties or injuries.
Rise in ULFA-I Activity
The past few days, there has been a notable increase in the activities of ULFA-I in Assam. The banned militant outfit responded to a challenge issued by Assam Director General of Police (DGP) GP Singh, asserting that they would target him if he posed a threat. However, ULFA-I laid down two conditions for the engagement: the replacement of GP Singh’s security cover with CRPF or Indian Army officers, including his driver and police officials and constables in the Western Southeast Asia (WeSEA) region.
Security Measures and ULFA-I’s Response
The ULFA-I’s demand for a change in security personnel raises concerns about potential security breaches. The group’s conditions emphasize the need for increased protective measures for Assam’s top police official, suggesting a complex dynamic between law enforcement and militant groups in the region.
As investigations into the Jorhat explosion continue, the police will likely delve deeper into the suspected ULFA-I connections of the apprehended individuals. The incident underscores the challenges faced by security forces in maintaining order and preventing militant activities in the region.