For counter-insurgency efforts in the Northeast, security forces recovered Rs 10 lakh in unaccounted cash during a joint operation near Miao in Arunachal Pradesh. The recovery was made possible following the interrogation of a top ULFA (Independent) cadre.
The arrested militant, identified as Binod Bora, also known by his alias Rupam Axom, provided vital information during his questioning. Bora was apprehended in connection with Lekhapani Police Station Case No. 34/2025. Which pertains to militant activity and extortion in the region.
Forces from two states and central agencies coordinated
The operation was carried out through close coordination between the Assam Police, Arunachal Pradesh Police, Indian Armed Forces, and the 186th Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
According to official sources, the recovered money was linked to an extortion racket allegedly run by ULFA-I operatives. Investigators believe the funds were collected from various contractors and traders operating in border areas.
“This recovery marks a breakthrough in our ongoing efforts to cut off financial support to underground outfits,” said a senior Assam Police official.
Cash stash found buried near Miao forest
The security team launched the search operation based on precise location inputs given by Bora during sustained interrogation. The spot, near a forested patch close to Miao in Changlang district, had reportedly been used as a hideout and drop point by the banned outfit.
Personnel combed the area thoroughly and finally unearthed a plastic container wrapped in tarpaulin. It contained neatly packed bundles of currency totaling Rs 10 lakh. The money has since been handed over to relevant investigating agencies for forensic and banking analysis.
ULFA-I’s extortion network under scanner
The interrogation of Bora has opened up several leads pointing to a larger ULFA-I extortion network that spans the Assam-Arunachal border. Sources said that other operatives could be using similar routes and hideouts to smuggle arms and funds.
Officials also suspect that the money may have been intended for logistical support. Including the purchase of communication equipment, rations, and possibly arms.
Further raids are expected in the coming days as multiple teams have been activated to trace the remaining nodes of this network.
Previous case links and legal proceedings
Bora, a long-time member of ULFA (Independent), has been linked to multiple earlier cases involving armed attacks, extortion, and insurgency-related violence. His arrest had already sent shockwaves through the militant network.
He is currently in police remand, and his custodial interrogation continues under the supervision of senior officials. Assam Police is also preparing to file additional charges based on the new information revealed.
State and central coordination appreciated
Officials from both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh praised the seamless coordination that led to the success of the mission. The Assam DGP in a statement said, “This is an example of what can be achieved when state and central forces work in unison. We are committed to rooting out insurgency in all forms.”
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has also been briefed on the development, which may lead to further action against ULFA-I safehouses in other northeastern states.
Call to Action
Security agencies have urged local citizens to report any suspicious activity near border areas and forest patches. Public cooperation remains vital in defeating militancy and ensuring peace.
ULFA-I Profile on South Asia Terrorism Portal
