Incidents and Statements involving Garo National Liberation Army:2014

Date

Nature of incident

West Garo hills

SFs arrested a GNLA cadre and four OWG of the militant outfit from Tura in West Garo Hills. The GNLA cadre identified as Johny A Marak alias Goera (21) was arrested while he was trying to extort money from businessmen.

GNLA 'commander-in-chief' Sohan D Shira has ordered the closure of all dry fish markets in Williamnagar town in East Garo Hills District for non-payment of the amount demanded from them. Sources have informed that the GNLA is demanding INR 300,000 from each of the dry fish sellers which they are unable to pay. Other business persons too have received extortion notes but have refrained from giving any information to the police for fear of retribution from GNLA. However police are in the know since most dry fish shops have decided to down their shutters.

The ATF, a newly formed militant outfit from Garo Hills, has threatened of retaliatory actions against a GNLA for alleged unprovoked killing of some of its cadres in Songsak, Napak A'pal village in East Garo Hills District.

Shillong / East Khasi hills

The Commissioner and Secretary in-charge Home (Police) Jopthiaw Lyngdoh said that the breakaway faction of ANVC-B 'chairman' Rimpu R Marak had signed the agreed text of settlement [signed on January 5,2013] as a member of the ANVC.To a question whether they will adopt the same yardstick in case the GNLA wants to be part of the text of settlement especially when the outfit 'commander in chief' Sohan D Shira was a signatory to the tripartite agreement, Lyngdoh said the inclusion of GNLA in the agreement which had already been signed, is now out of question.

Shillong / East Khasi Hills

CM, Mukul Sangma said that the GNLA can also be part of the agreed text settlement if they agree to come under the ambit of their parent organisation, the ANVC.

Police commandos were bombarded by RPG explosions when they raided a hideout of the GNLA in remote Nanalbibra region of South Garo Hills District. There were, however, no casualties during the raid. The encounter took place after police teams launched a search operation to nab a large group of GNLA militants who had been collecting extortion money from coal trucks and quarries in Gare Nawak area of Nangalbibra region in South Garo Hills District.

The ANVC-B claimed to have inputs and evidence of ANVC's contacts with GNLA, UALA and other terrorist organisations including the Pakistan spy agency the ISI.

South Garo Hills Police are investigating the sequence of events that unfolded on January 17 night in which militants fired and damaged an education officer's car and also reportedly targeted the South Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Chinmoy P Gotmare's official vehicle. Preliminary investigation has indicated involvement of the GNLA-F led by former 'finance secretary' Redding T Sangma.

SFs arrested a girl, Rettilish R Marak (19), for allegedly serving demand notes and collecting extortion money on behalf of Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) in Tura in West Garo Hills District.

30 odd GNLA militants allegedly threw a challenge to the Police, asking them to come to an area in Shallang in West Khasi Hills District. Police authorities received the news, but fearing that the GNLA cadres might have planted IED in the area, did not venture out. However, when evening came, Police forces began engaging in combing operations in the area to look for the GNLA cadres.

The State Government has created a channel to bring GNLA to the negotiating table. While Governor KK Paul announced during his Republic Day (January 26) speech that the Government has offered the path of dialogue to GNLA, the Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, went further ahead saying that an exercise is on to bring the outfit for talks.

Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said lack of response time rendered the Police less effective in tackling the challenge of suspected GNLA militants at Shallang in West Khasi Hills District on January 24. The militants engaged in rampant looting of coal laden trucks in West Khasi Hills and even challenged the Police to engage in a fight with them.

SFs arrested five militants of the GNLA, Lasting G Momin, Arnesh G Momin, Bosco Momin, Fedrick Rongrin and Jaro S Sangma at Dorangre village in West Khasi Hills District.

The brother of a Meghalaya legislator was abducted by suspected GNLA militants in South Garo Hills District, bordering Bangladesh, Police said. "Naga M Sangma, 39, the younger brother of Independent legislator Samuel M Sangma, was abducted by four suspected GNLA rebels about 7.30pm last (January 30) night from his house at Gasuapara area," Abraham Sangma, the District Police official of South Garo Hills said.

Naga Sangma, the younger brother of the MLA Samuel Sangma of Baghmara constituency, who was abducted by suspected GNLA militants from his home in Gasuapara, on January 30, was released unharmed in South Garo Hills District. The family has, however, denied paying any ransom to the abductors. A sum of INR 2 million was reportedly demanded by the GNLA for his release.

South Garo Hills Police have uncovered a close nexus between the ANVC-B outfit and the GNLA-F that is preparing to float a new organization called the UPRA. Police uncovered the close links between the GNLA-F led by Reding T Sangma and the ANVC-B after a camp of the latter was busted near Mindikgre (South Garo Hills District) in the morning of February 7.

SFs arrested four suspected GNLA militants, identified as Sohidul Islam (28), Babul Hussain (27), Ismail Hussain (25) and Shahjahan Ali (31), from Karbala area in Goalpara town (Goalpara District).

SFs killed two militants belonging to the GNLA at Barjhara area along the Assam-Meghalaya border under Lakhipur Police Station in Goalpara District. SFs also recovered one .9mm pistol, one 7.65mm pistol, one satellite phone, one watch phone, live bullets, blank cartridges and two mobile phones from them.

SFs, in an encounter, killed an over ground worker of GNLA, identified as Kraibing Sangma at Mitapgre village in Chokpot region of South Garo Hills District.

Ashish M Sangma, the Project Director of the District Rural Development Agency in South Garo Hills escaped unhurt when suspected GNLA-F fired at his vehicle at Rongdotchi area in South Garo Hills District, Police said. No one was injured in the attack.

A group of senior GNLA leaders led by former 'finance secretary' Reding T Sangma have broken away from the outfit's military 'chief' Sohan D Shira and formed their own organization christening it ASAK. The 'commander-in-chief' (C-in-C) of the new outfit, Reding T Sangma, gave in detail the reasons for parting ways with Sohan D Shira. He blamed Sohan for the fratricidal killings within the GNLA group and for targeting other 'revolutionary' outfits like the ANVC-B and the Norrok X Momin led UALA making them sworn enemies.The new outfit ASAK, which literally means the vanguards of Garoland has named its headquarters as Grikram.

The 'eastern area commander' of GNLA, Ajan Momin alias Jimmy accused its former 'finance secretary' Reding T Sangma, who went on to form a new outfit called ASAK, of fund misuse. "He invested INR 70, 00,000 for coal trade and rubber plantations. All that money was taken from the organisation," claimed the GNLA 'eastern area commander'

Welcoming Meghalaya Governor K. K. Paul's offer of peace talks, GNLA 'commander in chief' Sohan D Shira maintained that it can happen only if their 'chairman' Champion R Sangma is released from prison and leads the group in the deliberations. Champion R Sangma is currently lodged in Shillong jail for subversive activities. He has obtained bail in several cases but needs to secure bail in two more cases to walk out free.

Referring to ASAK, Sohan D Shira, said, "We have reliable source that the floating of new outfit ASAK was masterminded by surrendered GNLA Mingran T Sangma". Mingran was previously the 'chief training instructor' of GNLA, but had deserted the group with over a dozen cadres and substantial number of weapons.

ASAK 'commander-in-chief' Reding T Sangma accused GNLA 'commander-in-chief' Sohan D Shira of collecting 'tax' from highway construction firm. ASAK leader claimed that Sohan D Shira had taken a sum of INR 100 million from BSC C&C Joint Venture (JV) which has bagged the tender to built and widen the Tura to Shillong road via Jengjal, Songsak, Nongshram, Shallang, Nongstoin route that has been named National Highway 44 E.

Reding T Sangma also accused, "Sohan demanded and took INR 1 billion from A'king Nokma who had received compensation from government for parting with their land for the Balpakram National Park. He bought a plot of land in Nongrim Hills locality of Shillong and has also purchased an apartment in Guwahati."

Two militants of the Breakaway faction of the ANVC-B, identified as Belbong and Raga, were killed in West Garo Hills, a Police official said. "Two ANVC-B cadres were gunned down by GNLA (Garo National Liberation Army) rebels at Sankinigre area this morning allegedly for extorting money in the name of the GNLA," said West Garo Hills District SP Mukesh Kumar Singh.

ANVC-B expressed doubt over the role of APVC, the newly formed vigilante group, and source of the footage that was leaked to media where a GNLA cadre executed an unidentified victim mercilessly. The ANVC-B also added that if the GNLA is willing to join the peace talks, Government must process necessary steps at the earliest to bring them on board in the best interest of Garo hills.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said that the government will examine the demand of the GNLA to release its jailed chairman for peace talks. "We need to evaluate everything in hand before moving forward and examine their (GNLA) demand," Sangma told journalists.

The Eastern 'area commander' of GNLA, Jimmy Ch Momin, accused the breakaway faction, ASAK chief, Reding T Sangma, of deserting the ANVC and joining the GNLA merely for monetary gains as well as in fear of action being taken against him by the ANVC leadership for his misdeeds,. He also alleged that Reding had the history of drifting from one militant group to the other adding that the current militant group, ASAK was the third that he had switched allegiance to.

James R. Lyngwa, the Rangbah Shnong of Nongrim Hills (East Khasi Hills) has said that it has verified the news report on GNLA leader Sohan D Shira possessing a plot of land at Nongrim Hills and found that he didn't own the same,

Goalpara / Assam

SFs killed three suspected GNLA militants at Kachumari under Krishnai Police Station, in Goalpara District. Three .9 mm pistols with 15 rounds of live ammunition and explosive materials weighing around one kilogram were reportedly recovered from the unidentified slain ultras.

A GNLA cadre, identified as Harison M Sangma alias Ranja, alias Rabal surrendered to Dainadubi Police.

The GNLA said that the outfit is coming for talks not due to the fear of operations against its cadres by the SFs. "We did not beg for peace talks. We were invited by Governor KK Paul. After several meetings held among the leaders, well wishers, area commanders and cadres, GNLA resolved to accept the invitation of the Governor," 'political affairs secretary' of GNLA, Bikdot Nikjang Marak, said in a statement.

A GNLA 'deputy chief', identified as Lethri T Sangma alias Harara was arrested by Mendipathar Police from Salpara, East Garo Hills District.

A woman who challenged a GNLA militant of extortion at Tura in West Garo Hills District, received a call from the 'deputy commander' of GNLA on the same day threatening to eliminate her and her family.

The newly-floated militant outfit in Garo Hills ASAK opposed peace talks between the GNLA and Government. Dura Marak, 'general secretary' of the outfit accused GNLA leader Sohan Shira of making money in the name of Garo people even as he said that Shira was not fit to represent Garo people.

Tura Municipal Board CEO, Z.J Sangma, lodged a complaint at Tura Police Station (West Garo Hills District) stating that on February 26, one employee of the Board received a telephone call, in which the caller claimed himself to be a GNLA 'Commander' and demanded INR 5,000 and later reduced the amount to INR 3,000 with instruction to pay the money at Tura Municipal Board office at about 12 noon on the same day.

GNLA threatened to eliminate people who are extorting money in its name. "I have ordered all our area commanders to look for those persons who are misusing our name and execute them at once," Sohan D Shira, the 'commander-in- chief' of the GNLA said. "We have been getting lots of information about some people misusing our organisation's name and we will not spare them." he added. Shira has taken exception to the reports that a GNLA cadre has tried to extort money from an employee of Tura Municipal Office.

GNLA reacting to the ASAK 'general secretary' Dura Marak's claims that GNLA 'commander-in-chief', Sohan D Shira could be hunted down within a week if the Police conduct a tight operation in the Durama Hills, said that it had enough arms and fire power to meet any kind of challenges and situations.

The GNLA has decided to 'serve' an ultimatum to the Government to make clear the latter's stand on holding talks with the outfit. In a statement issued to the media, GNLA's 'political affairs secretary' Bikdot Nikjang Marak said that in a recent meeting the GNLA resolved to 'serve' ultimatum to the Government to make clear its plans on holding talks with the outfit. It was on January 26 that the Governor, in his Republic Day speech, had appealed to the GNLA to come to the negotiating table. Following this, the GNLA had expressed its desire to hold talks with the Government.

GNLA 'political secretary' Bikdot Nikjang Marak claimed that the formation has recently refused the offer of INR 50 million from a road construction company so that development work in the area is not affected.

The State government is working on the modalities of peace talks with the GNLA, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said on March 4.

GHSMC held a meeting recently and resolved to organize a public rally at Selsela in April, 2014 to intensify the demand for Garoland Statehood in a democratic way. The demand for Statehood is in line of Linguistic Act 1956 and State re-organisation Act 1956, the General Secretary of GHSMC Augustine Marak said. "On behalf of the people of Garoland we appeal our beloved brothers of GNLA, ANVC-B, UALA, LAEF, ASAK, ATF, Matchadu Matchabet, ANLCA, ANCA and other splinter groups to turn to the main stream", Marak said.

SFs killed a GNLA militant identified as Niksrang Sangma alias Rondik Sangma at Gosaigadhowa in Goalpara District. SFs also arrested a GNLA militant identified as Binat Sangma during the operation.

The GNLA approved the name of the 10 person panel to hold talks with the Government. Rev. The names approved include Fr Januarius Sangma, Rev. Bro. Einstein Marak, former minister Jova Marak, Mariam D. Shira, Heneritha Marak, activist Jaynie Ningring Sangma, Babyana Sangma and Marilyne D. Shira, NPP leader Roger Benny A. Sangma and advocate Sujit Dey.

Addressing the opening day of the Budget session of the Meghalaya Assembly, Governor K.K. Paul expressed concern about the activities of GNLA in the Garo Hills. According to the Governor, the activities of HNLC had seen a decline during the past one year because of the constant pressure mounted by the State Police.

GSU leader, identified as Dreambirth has reportedly been abducted by suspected GNLA militants over differences in coal auction in East Garo Hills District. Dreambirth, GSU leader from Mendal in North Garo Hills, was on a visit to his family home in Dobetkolgre locality of Williamnagar (East Garo Hills) on March 10 when he was reportedly abducted by a group of unidentified men. He remains untraceable

East Garo Hills District Police intercepted a sports utility vehicle carrying arms consignment that had been dispatched from Karbi Anglong (Assam) for the GNLA in Williamnagar in East Garo Hills District in the evening of March 10. Police found three AK rifles with five magazine containers and 124 rounds of live ammunition.

Meghalaya Home Minister Roshan Warjri told the State assembly on March 10 that the Centre needs to be consulted before initiating peace talks with GNLA, since GNLA was a banned organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967.

Police arrested a member of disbanded UPDS, Sagar Chism, from Guwahati (Kamrup metro District) and recovered INR 122,900 in cash from his possession which was sent by GNLA 'commander-in-chief' Sohan D. Shira as advance payment for the arms and ammunition. Sagam's whereabouts was revealed by two of his arms smuggler associates who were arrested in Williamnagar in Meghalaya with a cache of arms and ammunition meant for GNLA.

The GNLA has denied having any hand in the abduction of a GSU leader, Dreambirth G Momin, who was abducted from Williamnagar in East Garo Hills District.

With the Meghalaya Government making it clear that it was not keen on a division of the State, the move of the GNLA to hold talks with the State Government has hit a roadblock since, the creation of a separate Garo State is the key demand of the militant outfit.

The GNLA released the names of 12 people to act as mediators for talks with the Government and urged upon Meghalaya Governor K K Paul to approve their names. GNLA 'commander-in-chief' Sohan D Shira announced the names of the 12 mediators through a 'notification' from the outfit's 'military affairs' committee.

GNLA shot dead Servison R Sangma, the cousin of its own 'chairman' Champion Sangma for deserting the outfit even as it claimed that the killing was 'accidental'. A 12-member group of armed GNLA militants led by its 'action commander' Ajan Ch Marak alias Jimmy Momin came down to Asiragre village, three kilometres from Williamnagar (East Garo Hills District), and targeted the home of Servison.

Suspected GNLA militants attacked a SWAT team at Ambari near Shallang in West Khasi Hills District in the morning. GNLA militants numbering around 12 to 14 carrying heavy arms came to Songsak toll gate for extorting money to the trucks. Sallang Police after getting the information about the presence of GNLA rebels in the area rushed a SWAT team to the spot. GNLA militants attacked the Swat team as soon as it reached the spot.

The UALA turned down a proposal for the unification of all insurgent groups within the Garo Hills region, an idea floated recently by the GNLA. The GNLA had on March 29 come out with the idea of all the insurgent groups coming together under the banner of a GULF to ensure the movement gained a 'proper direction'. UALA 'chairman' Chiindik Marak said in a press statement that "We will never welcome the proposal of the GNLA, unless and until they initiate a discussion on the issue of a separate State. We are dedicated, humble and responsible soldiers fighting for Garo people's rights. We will support the peace process, if government makes their intentions clear on the issue of separate State".

A trader running a hardware store in Rongrikkimgre village of Chokpot in South Garo Hills was abducted at gunpoint in broad daylight during the weekly market day. Police suspect the involvement of either the banned GNLA or newly-formed outfit ASAK. A suspected over ground worker of militants has reportedly been picked up in connection with the abduction.

The GNLA has denied any involvement in the recent abduction of a trader from Rongrikkimgre Village of Chokpot in South Garo Hills. The trader, Dulal Roy an owner of a hardware store in the market was abducted at gunpoint by three unidentified armed militants on March 31. Denying its involvement in the incident 'finance secretary' of the GNLA, Rakam Ch Marak, put the blame on rival militant outfit ASAK and its 'commander-in-chief', Reding T Sangma.

Turf war between militant factions in five Districts of Garo hills in Meghalaya has made the counter insurgency operations of the Security Forces being extended beyond the realms of the recent operationalised areas. The splinter groups of the (GNLA) have taken over certain bases of the mother organisations and extended their areas of operations beyond those known coal belts that have been the hot bed of extortion and abductions.

Union Ministry of Home Affairs has ruled out discussion on creation of Garoland, which is the key demand of the (GNLA). JPN Singh, Director in charge North East, MHA during his recent visit to Shillong told that the demand for a separate Garoland is non-negotiable. "The separate Garoland demand is non-negotiable. However, talks with GNLA will take place, but the militant outfit has to give up Garoland demand", the official said. According to the MHA functionary, the Centre has shown interest to hold talks with GNLA, but the Garoland demand is an irritating factor. "But we will take care of other demands of GNLA", he also said.

GNLA militant, Marak, escaped from Civil Hospital in Tura town in West Garo Hills. Marak was undergoing treatment at the hospital after he, along with another militant Ringrang A Sangma, were beaten by an angry mob at Ampati in South West Garo hills District on April 16.

Six GNLA militants were arrested at Borjhara village in Goalpara District by SFs. Four 7.65 mm pistols two country made rifles, two swords, number of live rounds, five mobile phones and three motorcycles have been recovered.

Several GNLA cadres, who were having a picnic, escaped after an exchange of fire between them and Police at Resubelpara, North Garo Hills in the evening. there was no report of casualty.

A report says that prominent leader of ULFA-I faction Drishti Rajkhowa has shifted to Sherpur in Bangladesh, from Garo hills where he was staying with GNLA.

GNLA militant was killed by Police Commandos at at Daji Badimagre-Boldakgre village, a remote Chokpot region of South Garo Hills District. The incident happened when the Police Commandos from SWAT unit engaged in counter insurgency operation saw a group of GNLA militants who were going to the village. The Police recovered an AK-47 with several rounds of ammunition and a knapsack containing camouflage uniforms from the deceased. The militants who escaped in the encounter later returned and fired at the SFs.

Meghalaya Government is trying to bring UALA and GNLA for negotiations. The Government has been engaging with the leadership of both the groups at various levels. Meanwhile it has clearly stated that the Government will not succumb to the militant groups' demands. The State Home Minister, Roshan Warjri had earlier said that 'chairman' of the GNLA Champion Sangma will not be released before any peaceful settlement has been reached.

Two GNLA militants were arrested near Medhipara in Goalpara District along the Phutamati-Rongsai road while they were travelling from Meghalaya to Assam by SFs. Two 7.65 mm pistols (China made) and two live rounds were recovered from them. The militants during interrogation stated that they were working with GNLA for last three to four years and were on their way to Rangsai to kidnap a local trader.

UALA and GNLA have been carrying out heavy extortion from the local population residing along Assam-Meghalaya border.

Two GNLA militants were arrested near Medhipara in Goalpara District along the Phutamati-Rongsai road while they were travelling from Meghalaya to Assam by SFs. Two 7.65 mm pistols (China made) and two live rounds were recovered from them. The militants during interrogation stated that they were working with GNLA for last three to four years and were on their way to Rangsai to kidnap a local trader.

UALA and GNLA have been carrying out heavy extortion from the local population residing along Assam-Meghalaya border

GNLA demanded a judicial probe or CBI probe into the custodial death of Balsan S Marak or to prepare for a two-day shutdown of the entire Garo Hills region.

GNLA demand pads were recovered from residence of Cherang M. Sangma,an ASAK militant.

Tura/ West Garo Hills

Two GNLA cadres, identified as Dipson Ch Marak and Jisen Ch Momin were arrested from Tura Market.

New Delhi

ANVC-B 'chairman' Rimpu Marak stated the need to include GNLA for negotiations. He stated that "Without bringing GNLA to the negotiating table, there will be no peace".

Daji Badimagre/ South Garo Hills

Militants of GNLA killed a former cadre of the outfit at Daji Badimagre village of Chokpot in South Garo Hills District.

Chokpot/South Garo Hills

An over ground worker of GNLA Witson M Sangma died in Police custody in Chokpot Police Station in South Garo Hills. He was arrested for planting two pressure cooker IEDs on a road in Chokpot on May 20.

Pohktieh/ Shillong

GNLA militant, Tuseng S Sangma was arrested from Pohktieh locality in Shillong. Police recovered eleven new mobile phones meant for GNLA cadres, INR 17, 500 and camouflage uniform.

Haldibari/ West Garo Hills

A village elder Huzil Mann succumbed to his injuries after an attack by suspected GNLA militants his house at village Haldibari near Selsella in West Garo Hills on May 24.

Grongkam

ARF condemned the custodial death of GNLA over ground worker in Police custody.

Chokpot/ South Garo Hills

Curfew was relaxed in Chokpot region of South Garo Hills for eight hours as no untoward incident was reported since May 29 mob attack on the Police Station over a death of suspected GNLA over ground worker.

Raja Ronggat/ South Garo Hills

A woman was shot dead by GNLA militants, led by a militant identified, as Tengton at Raja Ronggat village of Chokpot, in South Garo Hills.

Boldoka/West Garo Hills

Two government employees identified as as Mekmohan Koch and Rashim Koch were abducted by suspected GNLA militants, led by Krimpet, a GNLA 'commander' at Boldoka in Selsella region, West Garo Hills. Though Police caught up with the abductors at Dipogre village in South Garo Hills District, after a brief encounter the militants escaped.

Zekabari/West Garo Hills

Shoe shop owner in Zekabari, in West Garo Hills, identified as Fozal Haque who was abducted on June 1 escaped from the GNLA militants.

Raja Ronggat/ South Garo Hills

A 35-year-old woman was killed by GNLA militants on June 3 as she resisted their rape attempt, a top Police official said. GNLA left a note stating that she was a Police informer. Meghalaya Police have confirmed that GNLA militant Tengton led the group that executed the woman.

Raja Ronggat/ South Garo Hills

Political affairs secretary' of GNLA, Bikdot Nikjang Marak stated that the woman killed on June 3 was a Police informer.

Durama hills/ East Garo Hills

Garo Hills Police busted GNLA leader Sohan D Shira's camp in Durama hills in East Garo Hills District. SFs recovered three bullet proof jackets along with an air gun, some personal belongings of the militants. Militants escaped without any casualties.

Two GNLA militants were arrested near Medhipara in Goalpara District along the Phutamati-Rongsai road while they were travelling from Meghalaya to Assam by SFs. Two 7.65 mm pistols (China made) and two live rounds were recovered from them.

UALA and GNLA have been carrying out heavy extortion from the local population residing along Assam-Meghalaya border.

GNLA 'vice chairman' Rafus Marak stated that the outfit has resolved to remove Alva Sangma a Garo Hills-based journalist and the 'chief Advisor' to GNLA's 'chief' Sohan D Shira from the post. They alleged that she misappropriated fund, she was found guilty of sending photos of GNLA camps to the Police.

After killing of the 35-year-old woman in Raja Ronggat village in South Garo Hills by GNLA militants and the rise in militant-related activities in the Garo Hills, the Opposition-Meghalaya Peoples Front called for presidential rule.

South Garo Hills Police Chief Lakador Syiem has made it clear that the 35-year-old woman who was killed by GNLA was not a Police informer.

Several Garo pressure groups and NGOs condemned killing of a 35-year-old woman in Chokpot by GNLA.

State Police denied the report that the GNLA 'chairman', Champion R Sangma, is using cell phone with internet connection in Shillong jail.

GNLA militant, identified as Nikho Marak who was assaulted by the public in South Garo Hills while extorting money succumbed to his injuries.

ANVC-B said that there is a hope of restoring peace in Garo Hills since GNLA 'chairman' Champion has been considering the possibilities of avoiding further bloodshed.

At least 12 persons have been executed by GNLA militants since 2012, alleging them to be Police informers.

CM Mukul Sangma said that a list of interlocutors to hold dialogues with GNLA has been forwarded to GoI.

Mukul Sangma stated that Government would re-look into the proposed peace talks with GNLA since the govt have to re-evaluate since GNLA has continued to indulge in criminal activities and killing of innocent people.He also added that threat of GNLA to the Congress workers in Garo Hills led to the defeat of the party candidate from the Tura seat in West Garo Hills District.

GNC MLA Clifford R Marak stated that GNLA militants are allegedly killing wild animals to feed themselves.

Two individuals identified as Saisul Hussain and Shamina Khatun who was earlier abducted by GNLA from Bongaigaon District was rescued by SFs. Two militants were also arrested.

'Vice chairman' of GNLA, Rapiush Ch. Sangma was arrested from Koramangala in Bangalore.

Garo militants abducted Arvind Kumar, a Branch Manager of SBI Ampati branch from the outskirts of Garobadha town in South West Garo Hills District. GNLA militants are the prime suspects.

GNLA 'CinC' Sohan D Shira has slammed Chokpot Legislature, Clifford R Marak for his comments alleging that the GNLA have been killing wild animals. He shifted the blame on Police Operations.

Top agenda for CM Mukul Sangma who is leaving for Delhi is appointment of a mutually accepted interlocutor for peace talks with GNLA.

CM Mukul Sangma stated that there were some training camps which were jointly run by ULFA and GNLA.

Norek Bolonggre/ East Garo Hills

A GNLA militant Cheman Momin, was killed in an encounter at Norek Bolonggre village of Songsak in East Garo Hills District. In addition, four militants were wounded and a militant Bishno Sangma and a women identified as Pratima Marak, girl friend of 'area commander' Ajan Momin alias Jimmy, who managed to escape, were arrested. An AK rifle with six magazines and 160 live rounds, a shot gun with eight rounds, a hand grenade, two pistols of 7.65 calibre along with 19 live rounds, 3 wireless handsets, 18 rounds of ammunition of various calibre, seven rounds of .22 pistol along with badges, camouflage dress, holsters, stamp seals and letter pads of GNLA, SIM cards and four mobile handsets besides four identity cards of the militants were recovered from the GNLA camp.

NS

GNLA has killed over 100 people in the last five years.

Shillong

'chairman' of GNLA Champion Sangma, was granted bail by a local court in the case pertaining to a brawl in the high security ward of the Shillong District Jail on June 26, 2013 .

Kantanagre/ West Garo Hills

Suspected GNLA militants abducted four traders identified as G. Sheikh, Shah Alom, Ajgar Ali and Musaddar Ali at a place near Kantanagre village under Dadenggre Sub-Division in West Garo Hills District. The abductors have gone towards Dipogre in Baghmara Block in South Garo Hills District.

Darekgre/West Garo Hills

Militant identified as Dharma Kanta Rai, alias in GNLA as Garo Champa who was on 'deputation' from the ULFA-I to GNLA was killed during a rescue operation by West Garo Hills Police at Darekgre near Rongmasugre village in West Garo Hills District to free four traders abducted on June 25. Police recovered an AK-56 rifle, 66 bullets, two AK magazines, one 7.65mm pistol, one pistol magazine, 3 live rounds of a 7.65mm pistol, a walkie-talkie, two plastic explosives, three detonators, approximately 33,000 in cash and demand notes of the GNLA.

New Delhi

GoI rejected a proposal for talks with GNLA but is ready to strengthen Police Forces with INR 5 billion assistance. A Government source stated that, "The GNLA has to be dealt with force and without compromise."

The ASAK group which abducted the School teacher on June 30 was abducted also had a GNLA deserter identified as Goera,

Two CRPF troopers Constable Khot Sagar and Venkatchalam were injured in an encounter with GNLA. The rebels led by 'area commander' Philliport D Shira managed to escape. SFs recovered huge cache of ammunition, including 130 rounds of AK rifle ammunition, three pistols, two hand grenades, one claymore mine, 19 detonators along with one remote control device and seven high frequency wireless sets, besides incriminating documents from the site.

Dismayed over the varied reactions towards incidents happening in Garo Hills and the rest of Meghalaya, Savio Ch Marak, of GNLA lashed out against the anomalies in presentation of facts. This follows after a local daily reported the murder of a 55-year-old woman at Laitmynsaw village in East Khasi Hills District on July 3. Marak said that such crimes go unnoticed just because they are not occurring in Garo Hills.

PSO of Sohan D Shira, the 'c in c' of GNLA was killed in a raid by SFs at Adugre village in East Garo Hills District.Some IEDs a rocket, grenades, pistols, ammunition, GNLA flags as well as GNLA pads were recovered from the camp.

GNLA 'general secretary' Dalbin N Marak alias Amikka is using cell phones inside the Jowai District Jail and regularly in touch with his fellow GNLA leaders.

SFs exchanged gunfire with suspected GNLA militants.

Two GNLA militants were injured in an encounter at Warima Songmagre, near Chokpot in South Garo Hills District. Two pistols, one shotgun, one Chinese grenade, 90 rounds of AK rifles ammunition were recovered. At least ten hideouts of GNLA have been raided in the last two months.

GSU met with Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju in New Delhi and to expedite the peace pact with ANVC and ANVC-B.

Ex-ANVC-B militants, who came in search of abducted his son Boke D Marak from Bajengdoba Narangkol village in North Garo Hills District for ransom . They fired on Dil Bahadur when he fled the scene

GNLA Chokpot 'area commander' Jangjang Sangma stated that the destruction of several of the outfit's camps would not demoralize GNLA.

The 'publicity secretary' of the ANVC, Arist Sangma stated that GoI and State Governments need to call the GNLA for peace talks and that there should be conditions for GNLA to bring ASAK to the negotiating table.

Senior GNLA militant Signal Ch Sangma was arrested by SFs from Rangdapara in West Garo Hills District

GNLA protested ECs of GHADC move to amend the Garo customary laws 2009. 'political secretary' Bikdot Marak stated that any attempt to change the bill, will be dealt with severely.

Two Police were killed and three injured in an IED attack by suspected ULFA and GNLA militants at Rongram-Dadenggre road near Tebronggre in Tura West Garo Hills District.

Two teenagers were injured in a cross fire between SFs and GNLA at Jogogre in East Garo Hills District. SFs stated that five rebels, led by "area commander" Rangdat, were staying at the hideout. 7.65mm pistol with four live rounds of ammunition was recovered.

The area commander' Rangdat is the second in command of GNLA's 'northern command' and a close aide of 'area commander' Pilliport D Shira.

The SFs have raided twelve hideouts of GNLA, after C I operations were launched in the last two months.

CM Mukul Sangma when asked about criticism by GNLA about the proposed amendments to Garo customary laws 2009 stated he was not aware of what was happening in GHADC.

Constable Rahul Marak of Meghalaya Police died in a hospital in Guwahati after sustaining injuries from IED attack by GNLA militant on July 25.

DGP Hanaman said that ULFA senior leader Drishti Rajkhowa with 15-20 cadres is giving training to GNLA in manufacturing IEDs and ULFA is using Durama-Bajengdoba route to reach GNLA camps. He also added that ULFA carries out abduction from Assam and holds captives in GNLA camps.

GNLAmilitant Savio R Marak, an ex- Police man has claimed that his outfit was not involved in the IED attack on July 25.He said authorities had given orders to stop violence, crime and extortion.

GNLA militants Dulal Miah, Biswajit Koch and Aldrin Sangma were arrested in Mancachar in Dhubri District while serving demand notes in Dubri. Police official stated that they hope to break the extortion run by GNLA and ANVC-B.

GNLA 'area commander' Philliport D Shira escaped a raid by SFs at a hideout at Matronggre village in North Garo Hills District. He was with 19 other militants including his deputy Rangdat at the hideout.

Member of GNLA execution Squad Rakman Marak, surrendered to Police at Tura in West Garo Hills District.

GNLA militant was killed by SFs at Kodomsali in West Garo Hills District. Two 7.65mm Pistols (US and China made), live rounds, two magazines, two hand grenades were recovered from him.

GNLA militant Bishnu M Sangma who was in judicial custody at the Williamnagar District jail escaped from a Government hospital

Two GNLA militants were killed by SFs near Kongkhal village in Goalpara. A 9 mm pistol, one 7.65 mm pistol, ammunition, three hand grenades and an IED were recovered from the dead militants.

Havildar Bitharstone R Marak of Meghalaya Police who was arrested on April 19 in Assam for smuggling arms to GNLA was dismissed from Police.

GNLA denied that two persons who were killed on August 7 in Goalpara were its cadres.

GNLA denied that two persons who were killed on August 7 in Goalpara in Assam were its cadres.

ANVC-B said that it was not surprising that ASAK was following GNLA trend.

ULFA-I militant Babul Rabha alias Kancha who was involved in training GNLA in assembling IED was arrested in West Garo Hills District.

Police stated that "Kancha is the master trainer in IED of ULFA. He has trained GNLA cadres in making IEDs in their general camp."

During Operation Hill Storm 25 militants belonging to militant groups including GNLA were arrested from their strongholds.

OGWs of GNLA Walsang T. Sangma and Amit Marak were arrested Police from an area between Rongram and Tebronggre in WGH District.

During Operation Hill Storm SFs busted 4 GNLA camps. Eight weapons, 220 rounds of ammunition, five rocket launcher shells and other explosive materials were recovered.

State Government sought 15 companies of CAPF and CoBRA to fight GNLA rebels in the five Garo Hills Districts.

Two GNLA militants killed in raid at joint camp with ULFA by SFs at Songma Enggok,EGH. One SLR with 5 magazines, a 7.65 pistol with 3 magazines, one 9 mm pistol with a magazine, 2 detonators, and incriminating documents were recovered.

A BDO received a text message from GNLA with a demand to pay INR 50,0000.

Facing decreasing cadres and camps as a result of concerted operations by SFs GNLA is now using animals in a bid to sustain its cadres.

GNLA 'c in c' Sohan D Shira refuted the remark and accused Police of "randomly killing animals" during "operations".

High Court asked Government to release Pingku Palley Ch Marak a government laboratory technician, who was arrested for his alleged links with GNLA.

GNLA ruled out surrender as proposed by Chief Minister Mukul Sangma and insisted that talks should be held on the issue of Garoland.

GNLA leader Savio Marak stated that GNLA will not come for talks without the cause of Garoland. He said GNLA will never surrender and Government should not expect GNLA for unconditional talks.

GNLA militant Savio Marak denied GNLA involvement in the killing of suspected ANVC-B militants, whose bodies were found from Oragitok in West Garo Hills on August 28.

A GNLA linkman Onmen Marak was arrested by BSF and Police from Phulbari in West Garo Hills.

Tura-based journalist Saidul Islam Khan lodged a complaint that GNLA cadres; Rimphu Marak, Lucas Marak and Savvio Marak have threatened him through a Facebook forum, criticising his article about the situation in Garo Hills.

SFs arrested a GNLA linkman identified as Onem Marak from an unidentified location.

GNLA robbed cash and valuables worth INR 400000 from the passengers of an auto-rickshaw at Bankimari in Dhubri.

Savio Marak of GNLA stated that GNLA has turned back many minors who wanted to join GNLA and denied recruiting uneducated Garo youths.

GNLA in a press release termed the report on the situation in Garo Hills in national magazine Tehelka as 'fabricated and added that reporters had not spoken to 'c-in-c' Sohan D Shira but had only used material from a video.

Durama forest range is known to be a Safe haven for GNLA.

GNLA has procured the high dimension walkie talkie sets with the help of ULFA.

GNLA c-in-c Sohan D Shira has threatened a wave of serial blasts in Garo Hills targeting Government and Congress offices in retaliation to proposed peace talks with HNLC.

A video shows GNLA caning at some villagers suspected to be Police informers at Pakregre village in East Garo Hills. A GNLA militant, identified as Bestfield N Marak who was killed in an encounter on September 10 was also seen in the video. Police suspect that militants canned the villagers to ensure a safe haven from the Police, engaged in the combing operations.

GoI has advised the State Government not to hold talk with GNLA as its members are still very much active in carrying out violence and illegal activities in Garo Hills.

A suspected GNLA militant was killed in an encounter with SFs at Pakregre in East Garo hills. A pistol, a high-frequency wireless set and incriminating documents were recovered from the site.

Police Chief Davies Nestell Marak stated that there were around 22 GNLA militants led by 'commander' Chekam Marak alias Dawang in the area.

Meghalaya IG Raju stated that during Operation Hill Storm 11-12 GNLA camps were busted and 25 militants including GNLA cadres were arrested.

Four suspected GNLA militants were killed in an internecine clash with AMEF at Bolmaram forest near Williamnagar in East Garo Hills.

SFs killed a GNLA militant Rikman Ch Marak and wounded two others near Rambugre Songgital village in EGH. Police recovered a pistol, a wireless communication handset and GNLA documents from the dead militant.

EGH SP Davis R Marak stated that SFs have destroyed as many as 12 major camps of the GNLA in East Garo Hills as a part of Operation HillStorm.

GNLA 'c-in-c' has fled his hideout in the remote forests of Garo Hills and has crossed over to neighbouring Bangladesh to escape the ongoing operation.

GNLA cadres are in disarray and most of them have been split up in small groups of 15-20 members

Meghalaya Police is conducting a search to trace the bodies of four GNLA cadres who were reportedly killed by Jack Party of AMEF in Bomlaram jungle of Williamnagar.

GNLA claimed responsibility for the September 4 video portraying villagers being beaten up at Pakregre village near Rongjeng in East Garo Hills.

GNLA stated that the of the 7 assaulted villagers five were extorting in the name of GNLA and two were suspected Police informers

CSWO President Agnes Kharshiing condemned the brutal and horrific act' of caning perpetrated by GNLA in Pakregre village

GNLA 'chief' Sohan D Shira stated that "Bangladesh was merely a route to various other countries that can be used for business. He added that GNLAs business is fight for Garoland and it requires better arms and technologies which those countries provide.

GNLA senior cadre Savio Marak stated that Sohan D Shira was their leader and that all criticisms are pouring in because of false Police stories. He added the GNLA must endure these fabricated stories, false accusations, as Garoland matters the most.

Shalom Meghalaya, a church movement for peace in Garo Hills strongly condemned the video showing canning of villagers by GNLA.

An ex GNLA militant Teseng Sangma who left the outfit to form his own group was killed in an encounter with a joint team of North Garo Hills Police and Indian Army. An INSAS rifle along with magazine holding eight live rounds of ammunition were recovered from the encounter site. His accomplice Gobin Sangma managed to escape during the encounter.

SGH Police and SWAT attacked two base camps of GNLA in Chokpot at SGH. SWAT commandos raided two hideouts close to Nokatgre village in Chokpot region, but militants led by GNLA 'commander' Hedeo escaped before the SFs arrived There were as many as 40 militants in the two camps who managed to get away.

GNLA deputy commander-in-chief' Toding Ch. Marak alleged that the Achik community was losing its liberty at the hands of C.M Mukul M. Sangma

GNLA 'joint publicity secretary' Garo Mandai Ch. Marak lambasted ANVC for selling 'fake dream' of "Greater Garoland"

GNLA 'joint publicity secretary' Garo Mandai Ch. Marak stated that "When ANVC are fed up with the idea of 'Greater Garoland', they settled for the strengthening of GHADC. They should not have sold fake dreams to the people of Garo Hills if their real intention was to increase the members of GHADC.

A section of people feel that that other militant outfits such as GNLA should be brought back to the mainstream.

GNLA 'joint publicity secretary', Garomandai Ch Marak strongly condemned the death of two persons who were protesting against NGT ban on rat-hole coal mining

Police arrested Ajijur Rahman and Bahar Ali and recovered 240 explosive sticks and 400 detonators It is suspected that duo were on their way to hand over the explosives to someone in Goalpara where GNLA has a strong base.

SFs arrested two GNLA militants from an unspecified location at Goalpara.

Six militants of GNLA including an 'area commander' surrendered before Police at Tura in West Garo Hills. The surrendered cadres also deposited arms and ammunition including an AK-56 along with two magazines, 82 live AK rounds, two 7.56 pistol with 2 magazines, 12 rounds of 7.65 pistol ammunition and one grenade.

A GNLA militant Ratan Marak, surrendered before the Meghalaya Police in East Garo Hills.

GNLA militants have surrendered at a time when intelligence report indicate that GNLA 'c-in-c' SOHAN Shira has taken shelter in Bangladesh. A source in the Government stated that "With Shira taking shelter in Bangladesh, some of the cadres felt neglected as they were left to fend for themselves. This led them to come out and surrender before the Police. There could be many more who would follow the same path."

Sudden displacement of people and stoppage of economy due to the floods militants cannot extort or engage in criminal activities and this may be the reason for sudden rise in GNLA surrenders.

Police busted a GNLA camp at Sakalgre in West Garo Hills District after a brief fire fight. Police on October 13 had detained an individual, identified as Sengrak Momin, in Rongram in WGH who led them to the hideout. Baichung, an 'area commander' and Jarek both senior members of the outfit managed to escape. One SBBL gun, three country made shotguns, one 7.65 magazine, detonators, etc were recovered from the camp

AMEF was formed by 'commander' Jack Marak, who was initially with GNLA.

AMEF 'general secretary' Niksamso Matgrik, who was earlier a GNLA militant, accepted that he was behind the abduction of PK Boro, the then BDO of Dadenggre, but stated that "The abduction was carried out to show GNLA strength to the Government

An unidentified juvenile militant, suspected to be a GNLA militant was arrested from Gasuapara in South Garo Hills District.

A suspected GNLA militant, identified as Alet G Marak, was arrested in Nongalbibra, in Agreng area in East Garo Hills.

Bajengdoba/East Garo Hills

5 GNLA militants Griksang B Marak, alias Katnap, Chanang K Marak alias Rasong, Tengbarth M Marak alias Jingjang , Lonan M Sangma and Nikrak M Sangma alias Mikjan surrendered before NGH SP at Bajengdoba Police Station in EGH.. The militants surrendered with a US made automatic carbine rifle with two magazines and a hundred rounds of ammunition, two 7.65 pistols with two magazines and nine rounds of ammunition and a wireless handset.

NS

'deputy commander-in-chief ' of GNLA Toding Ch Marak claimed that Meghalaya police is staging a plot to assassinate the family members of its top leaders including Sohan D Shira by using surrendered cadres. He stated that "Based on our intelligence, we received specific inputs that Mingran T Sangma along with other surrendered cadres and with the help of Meghalaya police in the guise of militants are planning to assassinate our families including our 'c-and-c' Sohan D Shira's family.

NS

The 'joint public secretary' Garo Mandei Ch Marak of GNLA said that despite the surrender of many GNLA cadres, the outfit still has a good number of committed cadres with it.

South Garo Hills

Four OGWs of GNLA Sachin M Sangma, Maketh Ch Marak, Nanak Ch Sangma and Danle M Marak surrendered before the South Garo Hills Police.

Salpara/ East Garo Hills

GNLA militant Griksang Marak alias Chuang was arrested from Salpara area of Mendipather in East Garo Hills. He later Police to a hideout inside a forest near Rongcheng village West Khasi Hills District where he had concealed a Chinese Sniper Rifle along with an AK rifle and a .303 rifle Police also recovered as many as 160 rounds of ammunition with four magazines meant for the sniper rifle, an AK magazine containing 35 rounds and four .303 calibre bullets. A wireless handset along with a GNLA training manual, two mobile phones, sim cards were also recovered from the hideout.

Salpara/ East Garo Hills

Griksang Marak also confessed that he was part of a three-member gang that killed four other militants belonging to ULFA-I and GNLA on September 13.

NS

GNLA deputy commander-in-chief' Toding Marak alleged that death of Sub-Inspector Promoth Sangma on October 23 was a mistake on the part of the Police Team. He also added that the villagers stated that there were no militants in the village.

A GNLA militant Tesang M Sangma alias Waljang, who fled from his sentry post in a GNLA camp located in Sakalgre in West Garo Hills, surrendered before West Garo Hills SP) in-charge B A Sangma at Tura in West Garo Hills District. The militant had joined GNLA in June 2014. He surrendered with a single barrel shot gun.

Damas Kaskona/ East Garo Hills

A primary school teacher, identified as Maliram Rabha was abducted by a group of suspected GNLA militants from Damas Kaskona village in East Garo Hills. The suspected GNLA militants armed with pistols entered the village, claimed to be members of a non-existent A'chik Matgrik Tiger Force (AMTF) and walked off with their captive on foot towards the interior of Damas region, bordering Goalpara.

NS

GNLA 'publicity secretary' Garo Mandei Ch Marak denied its involvement in the abduction of school teacher identified as Maliram Rabha on October 28. Police had earlier stated that GNLA militants abducted the school teacher, after claiming to be members of a nonexistent militant group AMTF. Police also stated that GNLA was holding him for a ransom of INR 2 million.

Rangdapara/ West Garo Hills

West Garo Hills Police raided a hideout of GNLA at Rangdapara village along Tura-Dalu Road in West Garo Hills. Police recovered two hand grenades after a brief encounter. GNLA leaders, identified as Hedeo and Jangjang, were believed to involve in planning to carry out an IED blast on a potential target travelling through the road when police raided the hideout. Two of the other militants who were with the group were, identified as Niksrang and Adil.

Sepikol/ North Garo Hills

School teacher who was abducted on October 28 by GNLA, which used the name of nonexistent AMEF was released He was released at Sepikol village in North Garo Hills District. It has been reported that no ransom was paid for his release.

NS

GNLA abducted a school teacher identified as Nikhil R. Sangma from an undisclosed location.He were a teacher in Riangdim village in West Khasi Hills District. Police Sources stated that The GNLA militants abducted him after he failed to fulfill their demand".

Meghalaya Police announced INR One Million each reward for information about 10 "most wanted" militants mostly based in the Garo Hills area. The wanted militants list included eight GNLA militants Baichung Ch. Momin alias Nikkam, Kiljang R. Sangma alias Jangjang, Hedeo Ch. Momin alias Karak, Ajan Ch. Momin alias Jimmy, Kennedy T. Sangma alias Hebel, Rakban D. Shira alias Philiport, Rikchi D. Shira alias Rakkam and Zen Robert Ch. Marak alias Toding alias Rupanto.

Trader sustained a bullet injury when militants opened fire on the vehicle he was travelling in at Oragitok in WGH. West Garo Hills Police suspect the incident to be the handiwork of local dacoits working at the behest of GNLA. Police added that the armed men had planned to abduct the traders for ransom.

In the wake of Police's charge-sheet against Meghalaya Minister, for links with GNLA, former CM Salseng C Marak said that there should be a thorough inquiry by a neutral body to look into all cases of politician-militant nexus in the state so as to clear the air of suspicion and mistrust.

The 'c-in-c' of AMEF who until now has only been known as Chang Matgrik, has revealed his real identity as former GNLA leader and ASAK 'finance secretary', Jack Marak

An unidentified OGW of GNLA was arrested by a team of Assam Police and Indian Army at Kumripara village in Goalpara. One pistol, ammunition and GNLA demand notes were recovered from him.

Six GNLA militants, identified as 'lance corporal' Binetson N Marak alias Skylance, Pilick M Sangma alias Mikdak, Amit R Sangma alias Wegop, Sengning D Sangma alias Bola, Belseng T Sangma alias Aldurik and Sadam R Marak, surrendered before North Garo Hills District Police Chief J.F.K. Marak at Resubelpara at North Garo Hills District. The militants handed over an AK-47 rifle with two magazines containing 58 rounds of ammunition, a semi automatic pistol with magazine and five rounds, a hand grenade and a wireless handset.

GNLA 'area commander' of West Khasi Hills, identified as Kobit Ch. Marak alias Jongman surrendered before SP S. Nongtnger at Nongshram village in West Khasi Hills District. He surrendered with an AK 56, three AK magazines, one walkie-talkie and 84 AK live ammunition.

GNLA militant identified as Jelliush Ch. Sangma alias Galmak PS surrendered before North Garo Hills SP J.F.K. Marak, with a hand grenade at an unspecified location.

GNLA 'chief' Sohan D Shira has denied issuing death threats to judicial officials and top Police Officers in the Garo Hills but maintained that its earlier bounty of INR 1.5 million for information of Police movement and locations was still standing

Meghalaya Social Welfare Minister Deborah Ch Marak would be appearing before a local court in Williamnagar, in East Garo Hills on November 14. She was charge sheeted for allegedly having links with GNLA.

Six militants suspected to be involved in November 5 attack on a vehicle at Oragitok in West Garo Hills District were arrested next to a waterfall in Oragitok in West Garo Hills District. West Garo Hills District Police Chief Mukesh Kr Singh claimed that arrestees were GNLA militants and added that that two of the arrestees were identified as Sengseng T Sangma and Jackey T Sangma belonging to GNLA 'area commander' Baichung's group. Other Police Sources stated that the arrested members are a mix group of criminals, including members of AMEF, ASAK and GNLA. The other arrested were identified as Salnam Ch Marak, Dandil Ch Marak, Ismail Sangma, and Francis Sangma.

Suspected GNLA militants by Jimmy, 'area commander' of GNLA in William Nagar in East Garo Hills District tried to execute a man whom they suspected to be a witness in the case related to Meghalaya social welfare minister Deborah C. Marak, Jangkegre village at East Garo Hills District.

Security has been tightened in William Nagar in East Garo Hills ahead of Nov 14 court hearing on the alleged link between Social Welfare Minister Deborah Ch Marak with GNLA.

In a joint operation, Army troops and Police arrested an unidentified GNLA linkman from Goalpara District.

Two Meghalaya Police men Havildar Aldrin Lyngdoh of 3rd MLP and Armed Branch Constable Aitom A Sangma of DEF were killed and three Police men identified as driver-fireman Medison Sangma, Constable Betherson M Sangma of DEF and 3rd MLP Battalion constable Brething K Sangma were injured in an IED attack by GNLA at Siju in South Garo Hills District. GNLA is known to dominate the Siju.

Suspected GNLA militants lobbed a grenade near the Rongram Police out Post at West Garo Hills District

GNLA 'joint publicity secretary' Garo Mandei Ch Marak stated, "The charge against GNLA of setting up an IED blast at Rewak which slaughtered two policemen and injured three others is not true.

Police have identified three members of GNLA, identified as Geloram, Mangsang and Sanja who took part in November 18 attack.

There is apprehension that more attacks will be carried out by GNLA given that intelligence reports have indicated transfer of IEDs from 'commander in chief' Sohan Shira's base camp to various commands of the group. Meghalaya Police stated that Sohan Shira with the help of ULFA-I had trained and issued some IEDs to senior cadres like Hedio, Jimmy, Philiport and others to target SFs.

Seven GNLA militants, including a militant identified as Milton were arrested with an IED from Ampati in South West Garo Hills District. Ampati is the constituency of CM Mukul Sangma. An IED weighing 6 kilogram with two detonators and a 9 mm pistol with few live rounds were recovered from him. The arrested militant has revealed that the IED blast, on November 18 which killed two Police men was masterminded by Nangalbibra (East Garo Hills) 'area commander' Rakkam with the active support of GNLA cadres Geloram, Timtam, Sanja, Mangsang and others. Reports also said that the arrested militant is suspected to have joined the AMEF this August.

Three GNLA militants were killed in an encounter at Sespani in Goalpara. A pistol some live ammunition and extortion demand letters were recovered from them.

Shillong District jail authorities have lodge a complaint with Police against GNLA chairman' Champion R Sangma who allegedly threatened a jail staff. He on October 16 tried assault a jail staff, identified as Kontro Khongwir inside the jail premises

GNLA refuted Police claim that three GNLA militants were killed in an encounter at Sesapani under Goalpara District of Assam and termed it as nothing but another fake encounter.

Three GNLA militants identified as Roneth Ch Marak, Ringaing Ch Marak and Modil R Marak from Purakhasia in West Garo Hills. Roneth Ch Marak and Ringaing Ch Marak underwent training in 2012 and worked under 'area commander' Simbat.

IG Police GHP Raju stated that the Seven GNLA militants arrested on November 19 were allegedly planning to carry out blasts in West Garo Hills District before Christmas. The IG also added that Ampati market in West Garo Hills was the main target of the militants.

GNLA declared that it has adopted the 'Maoist style' of operation in accessing vital information of State Government. The 'joint publicity secretary' of GNLA, Garo Mandei Ch Marak stated that like the Maoists in Dantewada, the GNLA, too is applying, the same tactics against the Government. He also said that GNLA was not involved in the IED attack which killed two Police men on November 18. He stated that "We have no plan to do such practices. We have sent numerous mystery operators in north, south and west Khasi hills, to gather crucial data and information about the government. This is to avail the most effective method to do our execution. We have allocated unique secretive delegations like the Maoists as it is done in Dantewada

Two GNLA militants, identified as Solly Ch. Sangma and Johny A. Marak, who were lodged in Tura District jail have been brought to Shillong for threatening a Police officer and his family, of East Khasi Hills District. Two militants on behalf of GNLA, created a Facebook page 'Meg Pol V/s public', where they threatened to kill a police officer of East Khasi Hills District and his family .

A senior militant of GNLA identified as Shuzaram R Marak alias Mahatma who was working under the direct supervision of 'area commander' Baichung Momin to mobilize funds from Tura town surrendered before BSF at Tura in West Garo Hills. He had underwent arms training at Durama Hills in East Garo Hills for three months.

Special Police raiding team the sentry of camp, identified as 'Great' of GNLA Durama forest in East Garo Hills District. He was PSO of Sohan D Shira, the 'chief' of GNLA. Sohan D Shira, who was inside the camp, however managed to escape. IED detonators, electronic devices, an AK rifle along with ammunitions and important documents were recovered by the Police.

Bing Chandra Sangma, resident of Bollonggre Apal near Rari area under Bajengndoba in the North Garo Hills was killed by GNLA militants for extorting in the groups name.

SP Davies Nestell R Marak confirmed that the GNLA militant who was killed in an encounter with Police at Durama forest on November 27 was PSO of Sohan D Shira, the 'chief' of GNLA.

Many GNLA militants are not daring to surrender due to their chief Sohan D Shira's direct threat to eliminate them and their families. These threats were delivered through the 'deputy commander-in-chief' Rupanto and area 'commanders' identified as Rakkam and Savio, disclosed a senior Police official while divulging the feelers sent by some GNLA cadres.

IB Chief Syed Asif Ibrahim said that in Meghalaya's Garo Hills, the militant GNLA, operating in tandem with the ULFA-I accounted for 75 per cent of civilian killings and 40 per cent of the incidents.

Garo Mandei Ch. Marak, the 'joint publicity secretary' of GNLA, while responding to the Police claim that the outfit's members were afraid to surrender in fear of 'commander-in-chief' Sohan D. Shira, said that there were provisions in the 'constitution' of the GNLA which allowed anybody who wanted to leave and lead an open life to go.

GNLA 'chairman' Champion Sangma was produced in a local court in connection with a case in which he allegedly threatened a jail staff.

Suspected GNLA militants attacked the official residence of the East Garo Hills Additional SP at Williamnagar in East Garo Hills District. Thirteen empty rounds of AK ammunition were recovered along with three live rounds from the incident site.

Suspected GNLA militants ambushed a Police convoy by triggering an IED and injured five Policemen of 3rd Battalion of MLP at Rongrakgre village in South Garo Hills District. The injured personnel have been identified as Havildar Bibison Baitha, Battalion Constable (BNC) Karbinath Sangma, BNC Alians B Marak, BNC Dambarth B Marak and driver of the gypsy Riwstarwell Nongklaw.

North Garo Hills Police arrested three militants belonging to ULFA and GNLA, at Rari village in Bajengdoba in North Garo Hills District. The militants had come from a GNLA camp in Chokpot region and were en-route to Goalpara District in Assam. The arrested militants have been identified as Pranjal Rabha alias Ringdim Himu Rabha alias Rangsang and Brillion N Sangma alias Sokjol.

The KHADC CEM Adelbert Nongrum expressed apprehension over the alleged atrocities and highhandedness perpetrated by the Garo Hills based militants, especially the GNLA, against the Khasi population residing along the coal belt areas in West Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills Districts. He claimed that GNLA cadres were active in the coal belt areas and were indulging in rampant extortion activities.

The State Police denied the presence of GNLA cadres in the coal belt areas of West Khasi Hills and South West Khasi Hills Districts as was claimed by KHADC CEM Adelbert Nongrum. A senior Police official said that "So far we have no information about GNLA cadres indulging in rampant extortion activities along the coal belt areas located in these two districts." He also said that police had not received any complaint about any such activity by the militant group.

Jailed GNLA 'chairman' Champion R. Sangma will appeal to the Supreme Court with the hope that he would be freed from detention under the MPDA.

The disbanding of the ANVC however does not guarantee peace in the region as GNLA has emerged as a major source of worry for the government in the last couple of years.

According to sources, ULFA-I leader Rajkhowa, who spends most of his time at the bases of GNLA. is maintaining close contacts with the leaders of the outfit. It also said that whenever the pressure of the security forces increases, Rajkhowa shifts to Bangladesh by taking advantage of the porous border.

Meghalaya Chief Minister, a day after the Police unearthed the arms deal between the surrendered cadres of the ANVC and the GNLA stated that leaders of the disbanded group should be responsible and accountable for actions of their cadres. He also asked the leadership of both the ANVC and its breakaway faction ANVC-B to cooperate with the investigating agency so that peace and development of the state is achieved.

GNLA refuted the statement by East Garo Hills Superintendent of Police Davies Nestell Marak that it had intended to carry out multiple blasts in three different locations of Williamnagar in East Garo Hills District.