Incidents and Statements involving Garo National Liberation Army:2015

Date

Nature of incident

West Garo hills

Four GNLA militants surrendered before West Garo Hills SP in-charge Bruno A Sangma. The surrendered cadres were led by Banang G Momin and the rest were identified as Tapseng M Sangma alias Rakchak, Walgrik A Sangma, and Damseng Ch Marak. He was the only member to surrender with a weapon. Banang G Momin handed over a 7.65 pistol with some ammunition.

Assam

SFs arrested five GNLA militants from Rongsoi on the Assam-Meghalaya border. Five pistols and ammunition were recovered.

NS

The GNLA has made an announcement on Facebook, a social networking site, that its 'chairman', Champion Sangma who is in Shillong jail since 2012, had resigned from the outfit. It also said the outfit is yet to receive any official letter from Champion Sangma on his resignation from the outfit. GNLA is a Meghalaya based outfit fighting for a separate Garoland State.

The information was made public by the 'public relations secretary', Garo Mandei Ch. Marak. The post also says the outfit had constituted a 15-member committee of which three are serving jail terms. The chairman's post has been kept vacant. The post on Facebook said the outfit would appoint a chairman if it is invited by the state government or the Centre for peace talks. The 15-member committee is being termed as "decision-making Body". The key members include "vice-chairman" Mikim Marak, "commander-in-chief" Wegara Shira alias Sohan D. Shira, "deputy commander-in-chief" Toding Marak, "general secretary" Raka Marak, "finance secretary" Rakkam Ch. Marak, "foreign secretary" Millam Marak, "political secretary" Bikdot Nikjang Marak, among others. Wegara, alias Shira, has been heading the outfit after Champion's arrest.

NS

The decision by jailed GNLA 'chairman' Champion R Sangma to walk away from the armed outfit he once jointly established with Sohan Shira has not gone down well within the ranks of the banned organization which has mocked him and accused him of 'absence' of qualities. "The leaders of GNLA bear better moral qualities than Champion R Sangma, though he is a former MPS [Meghalaya Police Service] officer. He no longer bears any qualities to become a leader of GNLA or the people of Garoland," said Garo Mandai Marak

NS

The presence of plastic explosives in the hands of Garo out fits such as AMEF and GNLA has been a worrying factor for SFs.

Bolmaram Agalgre/East Garo Hills

A teenage girl, identified as Manchi Ch Marak and an unidentified militant of ASAK were killed in a gun battle between ASAK and GNLA at Bolmaram Agalgre in East Garo Hills.

NS

GNLA expressed displeasure over the collection of parking fees from vehicles by the Tura Civil Hospital authorities, in West Garo Hills District. GNLA joint publicity secretary' Garo Mandei Ch Marak stated that it demanded to know complete details about the formation of the Hospital Management Society.

NS

In response to the demand of the GNLA to immediately put a stop to the collection of parking fees from vehicles at the Tura Civil Hospital the doctors and staff of the hospital have issued a statement clarifying certain points with regard to the practice.

NS

GNLA expressed regret over the death of Manchi Ch Marak, who was killed in the firefight that took place between GNLA and ASAK at Bolmaram Agalgre in East Garo Hills.

Williamnagar/West Garo Hills

Four GNLA identified as 'area commander' 'corporal' Lipsing M Sangma alias Phukan, Pilington Ch Marak alias Rakcheng, Washing S Sangma alias Tapcheng and Tengson R Marak alias Agar surrendered before East Garo Hills Police in Williamnagar.

Shallang/ West Khasi Hills

Police arrested an OGW of GNLA identified as Anjan Nongmin, who was attempting to extort money from coal traders at Shallang in West Khasi Hills District.

NS

joint publicity secretary' of GNLA Mandei Ch Marak assured safety to the families of those cadres who deserted GNLA and surrendered to Police. Mandei Marak stated that "We have no plans to hurt their families as asserted by one Mingran Sangma whose remarks in Facebook are provocative and misleading.

Mahendraganj/South West Garo Hills

Assam Police, in an operation, arrested two linkman from Mahendraganj area of South West Garo Hills The two suspects were identified as Salman N Marak and Kimberth Ch Sangma. They were working for GNLA and ULFA-I.

Jongbogre/ West Garo

A senior GNLA militant who was previously the security guard of Sohan D Shira, the 'commander in chief' of GNLA, was killed by GNLA militants at Jongbogre village under Gambegre in West Garo Hills. The militant has been identified as "Bunker".

Based on information provided by the Meghalaya Police Special Branch, Assam Police arrested two GNLA arms suppliers at Jorabat, identified as Runa Sangma and Biswajit Sangma. One AK 47 rifle with six round and two magazines, 380 numbers of ammunition of 9mm and 164 of INSAS were recovered.

GNLA denied its involvement in February 25 seizure of arms by Police from Jorabhat. GNLA leader Garo Mandai Marak stated that the arms shipment from Nagaland was meant for its rival outfit AMEF.

A GNLA militant identified as Jasang Ch Marak, an OGW of GNLA were arrested from Keating road in Shillong in East Khasi Hills.

GNLA accused West Garo Hills Police and the Garo Students' Union (GSU) of failing to come to the rescue of two families who bore the brunt of a mob fury in which they lost five members who were murdered by villagers, in Mrigre village, near Rongram in West Garo Hills.

Shallang/East Khasi Hills

Suspected GNLA militants lobbed a crude bomb at a petrol pump in Shallang area in West Khasi Hills District and injured two employees of the petrol station, identified as Amresh Kumar and Mejentis. SP West Khasi Hills Sylvester Nongtynger stated that that it is the handiwork of GNLA or AMEF.

Williamnagar/East Garo Hills

Meghalaya police appears to be preparing for a full onslaught against GNLA following the establishment of a special Operation Group Centre at Bolkinggre village of Williamnagar in East Garo Hills.

NS

GNLA claimed that the allegation made by Police that the outfit had thrown a crude bomb at a petrol pump in Shallang in West Khasi Hills was a guess work.

Rongram/West Garo Hills

The son of the Nokma of Oragitok in West Garo Hills, identified as Sengbath Marak was killed in an encounter between suspected militants of GNLA and Police in Rongram in West Garo Hills. A 7.65 pistol with two live rounds, two magazines, three GNLA demand notes and a detonator were recovered from the encounter site. According to Police he was a part of GNLA, since he opened firre at Police. There were four militants besides Nokma's son inside the house. The other militants managed to escape by opening fire and fleeing into the nearby jungle, close to Nokrek Biosphere.

NS

GNLA has called for a 12-hour dawn-to-dusk shutdown throughout the Garo Hills on March 9 and simultaneously given a call for an indefinite closure of Ampati in South West Garo Hills District, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma's constituency on the same day. The shutdown is in protest the recent mass murder of two families by villagers over witchcraft allegations and the subsequent killing of a Nokma's son on March 4.

Suspected GNLA militants allegedly fired at a school near at Rabhagre village in West Garo Hills. The militants fled when Police retaliated. According to information, GNLA militants riding on two motorcycles were trying to enforce the shutdown when the firing took place .Police recovered 7.65 mm pistol with one magazine and five live ammunition, safety fuses, two electric detonators, one GNLA demand.

Governor Keshari  Nath Tripathi has made a conditional talks offer to both GNLA and HNLC by saying that commitment of the Government to have dialogue  with the militant outfit remains, provided they give up their  anti-national stance and abjure violence.

The dawn-to-dusk bandh call given in the Five Districts of Garo Hills by GNLAcaused a total shutdown of the entire region, The students appearing for class 10th and 12^th standard examinations were the most affected, due to the lack of public transportation.

Close to 40 GNLA militants ambushed a Police team travelling from remote Rongara Police Station to Baghmara in South Garo Hills District, at Panda reserve forest area and killed four Police men and decamped with AK rifle, two INSAS rifles, a 9 mm pistol and ammunition.

Police stated that GNLA chief Sohan D Shira orchestrated the attack on the police team at Panda reserve forest. The magnitude of the attack and the large number of militants in one place at a time had lent support to the reports that the militant chief was present in the area.

GNLA absolved itself of all blame for students missing out on their exams during their dawn-to-dusk bandh in turn blamed certain Garo Hills NGOs and GSU.

Police stated that ULFA may have helped GNLA in the March 10 ambush in which four Police men were killed. DGP Rajiv Mehta said ULFA 'could have been' involved in the ambush, adding that the aim of the militants was to loot arms.

Police sources also stated that Sohan D Shira, ‘chief’ of GNLA had formed a special action commando team to carry out the ambush.

Militant groups such as GNLA serving demand notes to Government employees and business men in South Garo Hills District through SMSs and hard copies. GNLA area of extortion is confined in Baghmara in South Garo Hills and it’s adjoining area.

GNLA welcomed the offer of the Government for negotiations.

GNLA in a statement issued to the media ,demanded unconditional release of its jailed ‘chairman’ Champion Sangma for felicitating dialogue.

some shops in Ampati in West Garo Hills District, where GNLA had called for indefinite bandh opened up for business, While many of the shops continued to down their shutters in fear of retaliation by the GNLA.

GNLA issued a statement that “GNLA shall remain firm with the bandh already called in Ampati. Certain rules have been issued in this respect and shall be carried out by the respective Area Commanders. Defying bandh without consultation with our higher authority is very much regretted. We are contemplating punitive action against those leaders responsible for that”.

Involvement of ULFA in physical and logistics aids to GNLA in March 10 ambush at Panda reserve, South Garo Hills has been virtually ascertained stated a Police official. He also added that than couple of cadres involved in the ambush has been identified. Police also pointed out that GNLA senior cadres along with ULFA cadres who function under the ULFA area commander Dristi Rajkhewa were part of the orchestrated strike.

Shillong/East Khasi Hills

CM Mukul Sangma said that due to long-drawn negotiation for arriving at the peace settlement, many splinter groups of the ANVC were formed, including GNLA

AN exchange of fire took place between the police and a group of suspected GNLA at Rewak area, outskirts of Baghmara in South Garo Hills District.

Shillong jail/East Khasi Hills

Police foiled an attempt of smuggling of cash into the Shillong jail in East Khasi Hills District, meant for GNLA militants. Acting on intelligence inputs, the Special Cell office mounted the surveillance and picked up two Youths, identified as Amar Thapa and Niksang Marak and also recovered INR 50,000 from them. The arrested jail staff have been identified as Phrangsngi Kyndiah and Rupam Kuri.

NS

Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, has ruled out possibility of releasing jailed GNLA chairman Champion R. Sangma as demanded by GNLA for conducting peace talks. We will take into consideration its demand only when the outfit stops its anti-national and criminal activities,". When asked if GNLA is getting personal by targeting his constituency Ampati, he said that all these things were being examined by the Government. He stated that "Though the GNLA leadership is operating from jungles," he said adding that there was a need to examine its use of various social media network to propagate its agenda."We should commend those people who have come out openly defying the GNLA bandh,".

Ampati and betasing/Garo Hills

In view of the forces shutdown called by GNLA in Garo Hills region, most shops in Betasing and Ampati areas remained closed due to fear of retaliation.

NS

There will be a break in GNLA indefinite strike in Ampati constituency in South West Garo Hills, on March 17. The strike however will resume on March 18.

NS

Mukul Sangma stated that neutralization of groups like GNLA was the only way to send a strong message to militants. Stating that Government was very clear on neutralizing GNLA, Sangma stated that It is quite evident that they want to continue with their criminal and anti- national activities."The Chief Minister also asserted that the State Government has given directives to the State Police to neutralize the criminal groups.

NS

GNLA stated that Government can initiate talks with its jailed 'chairman' Champion Sangma. GNLA 'joint publicity secretary' Garo Mandei Marak said that "If the government is willing to talk, let our 'chairman' do so. Our chairman is accessible 24 hours. It is not necessary that all members of the GNLA should talk with the Government. Our chairman is our head and can talk on behalf of the outfit."He also commented on call to lift the indefinite ban in Ampati in South West Garo Hills District , by saying that "We are still examining the statement of Mukul Sangma and need some time to lift the bandh in Ampati."

Ampati/South West Garo Hills

As GNLA enforced shutdown entered the tenth day in Ampati in South West Garo Hills District, the District Administration has started providing relief to the affected people.

NS

A surrendered militant, a former training instructor of GNLA, , Mingran T Sangma who was accused by the GNLA and also a section of student and social organizations of being involved in the killing of Sengbath Ch. Marak said he was not involved in the shooting incident since he was only the driver of one of Police vehicles which took part in the operation. The using the service of surrendered militants by SFs has come out after this disclosure.

NS

GNLA lambasted Meghalaya Home Minister Roshan Warjri for her statement on an alleged "fake encounter" at Oragitok village in West Garo Hills GNLA in a statement issued by 'joint publicity secretary' Garo Mandei Marak stated that statement of Warjri that Sengbath was harbouring militants and had links with the GNLA is totally incorrect. The Home Minister had earlier stated that abductions, killings, extortions, movements and sheltering of militants had been taking place at Oragitok and Romba A'dinggre villages in the West Garo Hills in the past year. She also stated in the Assembly that "Intelligence inputs had confirmed that the GNLA was using this area as a safe haven and executing its nefarious activities."

Rongjeng/East Khasi Hills

Acting on information that GNLA militants had demanded money from a businessman in Shallang in East Khasi Hills District and that the money was to be delivered at Rongjeng market area, SWAT arrested a GNLA militant Lasting G. Momin and recovered INR 42000 from him. Later, based on leads provided by Momin, another GNLA militant of GNLA 'finance wing', identified as Abdul Latif was arrested from an unspecified location.

NS

In view of the State Governments alleged inaction to respond to its demand to bring to justice all those involved in the alleged fake encounter, on March 4, GNLA has announced shutdown of all Government offices in Garo Hills Region on March 26 and 27.

Arongre/West Garo Hills

GNLA militant identified as Slyvanush G Momin was arrested at Arongre village in North Garo Hills. He is being interrogated about the activities of the GNLA cadres in North Garo Hills and their association with ULFA-I. However four top GNLA militants were able to escape when Police raided their hide out. At least three of the escaped militants were involved in a recent missionary schools firing and arson at Tikrikilla in West Garo Hills District. Sources stated that GNLA 'chief' Sohan D Shira and the ULFA-I Lower Assam Based 'area commander' Driti Rajkhowa are in constant touch

Anogre/ West Garo Hills

The 'joint publicity secretary' of GNLA Garo Mandei Marak was arrested from Anogre village in West Garo Hills District. However, the GNLA, in a press release, claimed that the arrested man is not Mandei Marak.

Phulbari/Dhubri

A joint team of Army and Police arrested an unidentified militant of GNLA at Phulbari in Dhubri District.

NS

joint publicity secretary' of GNLA Garo Mandei Ch Marak, stated that he was very much with GNLA and he was not arrested by Police.

Gaksha/Kokrajhar

ULFA-I militant, identified as Raman Rabhawho who was arrested in Assam e had undergone training in 2012 at Durama hills in Meghalaya along with the 4th Batch of GNLA.

NS

Contradicting GNLA claims, DGP Rajiv Mehta has asserted that the person who was arrested on March 26 in Anogre in West Garo Hills was 'joint publicity secretary' of GNLA Garo Mandei Ch Marak alias as Anurak S. Sangma. Police said that the arrested person, a BA first year student, was active in social media and used to send press releases to media.

NS

GNLA has decided to relax the indefinite Ampati shutdown from April 2-6 on account of Good Friday and Easter

East Garo Hills Police shot dead a senior 'commander' of GNLA identified as Kiljang Sangma alias Jangjang, after Police stormed his hideout in the deep forests of Nengkhra area of East Garo Hills. He was the 'area commander' of Chokpot region in South Garo Hills, in 2014, when GNLA militants killed a civilian Josbina Sangma, accusing her of being a police collaborator. District Police Chief Nestell R Marak also added that an AK rifle, magazine with ammunition, were recovered. Camp was a permanent camp housing around 7-8 cadres."

GNLA triggered an IED narrowly missing a three-vehicle convoy of BSF, at Kherapara in West Garo Hills. Media Officer of Meghalaya Police claimed that the GNLA's Hadeo Ch Momin Group was involved in the IED attack. After the incident, a bomb disposal team from Tura rushed to the spot and identified a circuit used in the IED along with remnants of gelatin explosive materials.

GNLA again termed baseless the recent claim by Meghalaya DGP Rajiv Mehta that Anurag Sangma was GNLA 'joint publicity secretary' On March 29 DGP had stated that person who was arrested on March 26 in Anogre in West Garo Hills was 'joint publicity secretary' of GNLA Garo Mandei Ch Marak alias Anurak S. Sangma.

GNLA who number around 100, have unleashed terror in the five impoverished districts of Garo Hills in the last five years and killed over 200 people. GNLA has forged an alliance with the Bangladesh-based rebel group, A'chik Special Dragon.

SFs intensified the combing operations against GNLA rebels in western part in Meghalaya a day after the rebel triggered an IED on a BSF convoy on March 31.

GNLA deserter identified as Sengrak T. Sangma alias Bamon Rance was arrested in a joint operation by Meghalaya Police and Army at Arabellapra in Goalpara District. A 9mm pistol, a magazine, two rounds of ammunition and a GNLA pad were recovered from him. He is wanted in connection with firing on a CRPF. ASP also added that he had confessed to being involved with AMEF and ANLA.

GNLA in a statement has adopted five 'resolutions' against alleged fake encounters. According to resolution, Police kill an innocent person, MLA that particular constituency shall pay INR 700000 to the family members or the relatives As per the second resolution, the local MLA shall file an First Information Report (FIR) and must bear all the court's expenses of the victim's family. Thirdly, MLA himself shall institute a magisterial or judicial enquiry into the "fake encounters" that take place in his constituency. In the forth resolution said that compensation must be paid to the family within 15 days of encounter. The fifth resolution says that if any MLA does not conform to the resolutions, the GNLA will attack the family members of the legislator besides burning down his residence and property.

Ampati town will once again go back to its shutdown routine after five days of relaxation called by GNLA, in view of the Easter celebrations The indefinite shut down in Ampati town will resume from April 7.

. Police arrested Chandan Singh working for the Tura bonded warehouse, a liquor wholesale distributor, while he was preparing to deliver a sum of money demanded by the GNLA. GNLA had reportedly demanded INR 300000 from the bonded warehouse and Singh was supposed to deliver the money. On Chandan Singhs lead, Tura Police went to Sangknigre in South Garo Hills District and arrested Dominic Marak and Sengkal T Sangma. They were supposed to collect the extortion money and deliver it to the GNLA 'area commander' Karak Momin alias Hedeo.

Having obtained the location of the hideout of the GNLA 'area commander' Police raided Dapgre village in West Garo Hills District but were fired upon by a GNLA sentry, and the 'area commander' escaped.

Suspected ULFA militant was killed and a joint GNLA camp busted by East Garo Hills Police.

SFs exchanged fire with ULFA and GNLA at Mandalgre village in East Garo Hills. SFs located a make shift camp of militants and recovered IEDs.

West Garo Hills Police missed a group of GNLA militants taking shelter in a house in Amingokgre in West Garo hills. When police commandos approached the house they were reportedly fired upon by as many as half a dozen militants. Police recovered a 9mm automatic pistol with two magazines and 29 live rounds of 7.65 mm ammunition along with GNLA demand notes.

Meghalaya Police recovered the body of a suspected GNLA militant, suspected to be Doncheng, 'area commander' killed in Amingokgre in West Garo Hills.

GNLA warned of carrying out serial blasts in Garo Hills, especially in Ampati in South Garo Hills, if operations against it did not stop. GNLA in a statement said "Hunting us down and busting our camps won't demoralize us. Our struggle will continue. We are resolved to remain by our demands. We will voice against fake encounters, suppression of the general society, arresting and implicating innocent people with various false charges in Garo Hills by police in the name of law."

Meghalaya DGP cited the Sino-Vietnamese war to inspire security forces combating militants, especially GNLA.

He also stated that Operation Hill Storm-II was launched about eight days ago and had yielded good results. He stated that objective of the operation is to flush out militants from the interior areas and deny GNLA and Independent faction of United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA-I) militants any 'comfort zones'. He also added that during Operation Hill Storm-II, five camps of the GNLA were busted and three militants, including an ULFA militant was killed. One of the camps raided recently had about 90 cadres including ULFA militants.

State Police are looking into other crimes committed by GNLA 'general secretary' Dalbin N. Marak alias Amika, after his recent release order from MPDA by the High Court of Meghalaya. An official stated that though the Court has set aside the order of the detention authority, other pending cases can be followed up.

Asinagre/South Garo Hills

Based on revelation of two arrested GNLA linkmen, West Garo Hills Police raided a GNLA hideout at Asinagre in South Garo Hills, which led to a fire fight. A militant identified as Hendrin D Sangma was arrested and an IED was recovered.

Tura/West Garo Hills

Tura Police arrested two link men of the GNLA, identified as Brilliant M Sangma and Bilonath M Sangma while they were planning to serve demand notes on traders of the super market at the behest of GNLA 'commander' Hedeo Momin.

Ampati/South West Garo Hills

The indefinite forced shutdown of Ampati in South West Garo Hills, the constituency of Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma called by GNLA has crossed one month. The shut down started from March 9.

Dimit/ East Garo Hills

SWAT team raided a GNLA hideout at Dimit village of East Garo Hills bordering West Khasi Hills. The raid led to a fire fight with GNLA group led by 'commander' Darwin. Police recovered ammunition and an IED.

NS

GNLA has issued a final warning to the authorities of the Tura Civil Hospital in West Garo Hills to immediately put a stop to the 'illegal' collection of parking fees from visitors firmly asserting that it would not accept another explanation.

Damas Kaskona/North Garo Hills

Two GNLA militants, identified as Mukundo Rabha and Apurba Rabha were arrested from Damas Kaskona village in North Garo Hills District. A 9mm pistol, one magazine, three rounds of live ammunition and incriminating documents were recovered from them.

Komlabagan/ South Garo Hills

South Garo Hills Police rescued an abducted individual, identified as Kishori Lal, who was abducted by suspected GNLA militants. The abductee was a manager at a petrol pump in Baghmara in South Garo hills District. He was rescued from near Komlabagan near Patalgittim in South Garo Hills.

NS

Supreme Court will again hear the special leave petition filed by the jailed 'chairman' of GNLA, Champion R. Sangma, who challenged an order which detained him under MPDA.

Nangalbibra/South Garo Hills

GNLA triggered a powerful bomb blast targeting a two vehicle police convoy in remote Nangalbibra region of South Garo Hills that borders East Garo Hills District, injuring three Police men and 2 civilians. As soon as the blast occurred, GNLA militants perched atop nearby hills opened up with small arms fire targeting the two Police vehicles. The injured Police men have been identified as Havildar S Lamare, Constables Silman Marak and Dingman Marak. The civilians have been identified as Rapsing Marak and Cherak Momin.

GNLA robbed" the driver, patients and physician travelling in an ambulance at Belguri in Goalpara.

Source in Shillong Police Head quarters stated that there is no specific input about the anti-aircraft equipments with GNLA.

Six prisoners, including two GNLA and three ASAK militants escaped from Williamnagar District in East Garo Hills. The escaped prisoners of GNLA been identified as Jasan Ch Marak and Grewith D Sangma.

Dambul Aga/ South Garo Hills

A junior engineer of the State's Border Area Development department, identified as Alladin Sangma was abducted by suspected GNLA militants at Dambul Aga village South Garo Hills. Lakador Syiem District Policer Chief stated that "We strongly suspect the involvement of GNLA n the abduction. As soon as we got the news of the abduction, we launched operations and alerted BSF to block the exit points along the border,"

NS

GNLA alleged that AMEF 'commander in chief' Jack Marak who was killed by Police on May 2, was taunted and tortured instead of being given immediate medical help

Halwaghat/ Mymensingh

GNLA linkman identified as Rajya Sangma, was arrested by the Bangladesh Police from Halwaghat town, Mymensingh District.

Myemensingh/Bangladesh

Suspected GNLA militants, besides asking for INR 1.6 million as ransom , have shifted the abducted Junior Engineer Alladin Sangma to a nearby Bangladesh village located in Myemensingh District.

NS

Investigation into May 3 jail break from Williamnagar District jail, involving three ASAK militants and two GNLA militants are under way.

Jongchitpara/South West Garo Hills

Ampati Police killed an unidentified GNLA extortionist at Jongchitpara village in South West Garo Hills District. three blank GNLA demand notes were recovered from him

Tapa Darengchi/North Garo Hills

Suspected GNLA militant, identified as Gambat was gunned down by Police and the Indian Army in Tapa Darengchi area in North Garo Hills. A pistol was recovered from the site.

NS

GNLA criticized Urban Affairs Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh who, according to GNLA, has no moral right to make statements i, considering her alleged involvement in the education scam.

Anjonga/ North Garo Hills

Suspected GNLA militants, numbering about seven or eight, ambushed a Police team at Anjonga village in North Garo Hills in which an ASP Ringrang Theopilus Momin was injured.

Garo Hills

The 12 hour strike called by AMEF and silently supported by GNLA passed off with no untoward incidents.

Tura/West Garo Hills

A Tura-based contractor, identified as Gaurav Harlalkar was arrested for paying extortion money to GNLA at Tura super market area in West Garo Hills District. The arrested militants have been identified as Niti.G Momin, Butherson N Sangma, Elphison D Sangma and Tomen Ch Marak. Police also recovered INR 200000 from them.

NS

GNLA has extended support to AAYF which is agitating against the extension of tenure of GHADC. In a statement issued to the media, GNLA 'joint publicity secretary' Garo Mandei Ch Marak said that that since the bandh was called for the good of Garo Hills and its people, the militant outfit extended its support.

Dajiteksagre/South Garo hills

Police killed GNLA deputy commander', identified as Saddam Sangma at Dajiteksagre in South Garo Hills. An INSAS and a pistol were recovered

NS

Supreme Court has granted a respite to GNLA leader Champion Sangma by setting aside the order of East Garo Hills District Magistrate, passed in 2013, to detain him under MPDA.

Tura/West Garo Hills

Nine persons including three women, sustained injuries when suspected Garo militants triggered a blast outside a major hardware store in the heart of Tura town in West Garo Hills District. GNLA is prime suspect behind blast. GNLA area commander of West Garo Hills, Karak Momin alias Hedeo had allegedly served an extortion notice on the shop for INR 2 million.

A'ning/ South Garo Hills

Suspected GNLA militant, was killed in an encounter with the Police at A'ning area of Nangalbibra in South Garo Hills. A carbine was recovered from the encounter area. Police are not sure of the identity of the militant but suspect it to be Jamindar, belonging to the Rakkam D Shira command of GNLA.

NS

GNLA denied its involvement in May 27 blast in Tura, which injured nine people.

NS

Cashew nut trader and grandson abducted by suspected GNLA militants from an unspecified location .

Dadangiri/West Garo hills

The body of a cashew nut trader, who along with his grandson, was abducted by GNLA, was recovered at at Dadangiri in West Garo Hills. There is no news about grandson's whereabouts.

NS

GNLA said it may resort to pasting of posters to call any form of agitation following the High Court ban on media publishing news about bandh or shutdowns.

Daji Badima/South Garo Hills

Police recovered and later safely defused a powerful IED planted by suspected GNLA militants at Daji Badima in South Garo Hills.

NS

SFs arrested a suspected GNLA cadre, identified as Krenish M Sangma of Dendamgre village, for planting the device from an undisclosed location. According to Police he alleged that the device was handed over to him by GNLA 'commander' and explosive expert Hedeo alias Cellopa.

Rongkhon/ West Garo Hills

Police arrested two GNLA militants, from Rongkhon area in West Garo Hills District, as they prepared to transport clothing material for GNLA 'area commander' Indian Sangma. The arrested militants have been identified as Tengkim A Sangma and Stephen Sangma.

NS

55 GNLA militants were arrested , 29 surrendered and 7 were killed during Operation Hill Storm from July 7 to December 31 2014.

NS

From January 1 2015 till June 5 2015 41 GNLA militants were arrested and 7 have been killed.

NS

457 arms and ammunitions were recovered by the Police from the various militant groups including 7 (IED), 65 gram gelatin wax, 59 (detonators) and 1 (gelatine sticks), mostly from GNLA,

Tura/West Garo Hills

The surrendered militants were identified as Enok Ch Marak alias Bisil, Baiti M Sangma alias Namreng, Lorence M Sangma alias Kulam and Clifford Marak alias Jakjip.

Tura/West Garo Hills

Only one among the 4 militants had completed training. They stated that due to Police operation they had to move around and could not complete their training.

Chokpot/South Garo Hills

On an unspecified date last week, Police had come under fire from GNLA at Chokpot in South Garo hills.

Kherapara/West Garo Hills

Suspected GNLA militants shot dead a village elder identified as Livingstone R Marak, at Kherapara area of West Garo Hills, accusing him of being Police informer. Police inform that GNLA 'commander' Hedeo was behind the killing

West Garo Hills

GNLA militants opening fire on a passing vehicle between Dalu to Tura in West Garo hills. GNLA 'joint publicity secretary' Garo Mandai Ch Marak stated that his group had targeted the passing vehicle only to highlight their ongoing agitation in support of the unconditional release of AAYF President Salsam Marak.

Waribokgre/West Garo hills

Suspected GNLA killed a civilian identified as Abdul Latif, who was abducted on June 28. The body was recovered from banks of the Ringi river in Waribokgre Village in West Garo Hills.

Shallang/ West Khasi Hills

A GNLA militant identified as Lipson G Momin was arrested from Shallang Market in West Khasi Hills, after an angry mob assaulted him at Shallang market while he was serving demand notes to the traders.

Gambegre/ West Garo Hills

Three suspected GNLA militants identified as Junepaul D Sangma, Kamet S Sangma and Bikgrak S Sangma were arrested from Gambegre village in West Garo Hills. During interrogation ,Junepaul Sangma reportedly confessed to having planted the IED outside Mahabir Trade Agency in Tura bazaar on May 27th. A 7.65 pistol with three live rounds and INR 70000 was recovered from them.

Rengregre/East Garo hills

SWAT commandos of Meghalaya Police killed a top GNLA 'commander' identified as Savio Marak, at Rengregre village in East Garo hills. A pistol was recovered and large quantity of documents and dairies were recovered from the encounter site.

NS

Over 100 people, including security personnel, have been killed, and more than 200 people were abducted for ransom by GNLA in the last five years.

Tura/West Garo hills

Two GNLA militants, identified as 'joint political secretary' Benjamin M Marak and a militant identified as Kenny Roger Sangma surrendered to Tura Police in West Garo hills. A .32 pistol with 11 live rounds was handed over during the surrender.

Dadenggre/ West Garo Hills

West Garo Hills Police recovered a carbine pistol with ammunition from a house, at Dadenggre in West Garo Hills Districts, belonging to GNLA militant Kenny Roger Sangma, who surrendered on July 11 at Tura.

NS

Meghalaya Police stated that GNLA is involved in the abduction of District Sports officer of South Garo Hills, K.M. Sharma.

NS

Meghalaya Police stated that despite facing recurring reverses, the GNLA remains intact and can still be considered a potent force to reckon with. As per Police assessment has an effective strength of around 150 cadres and an almost equal number of over ground workers and sympathizers.

NS

Cabinet Minister Deborah Marak stated that that there was a need to hold talks with GNLA, which according to her would pave way for other splinter groups to follow the same line.

NS

GNLA claimed that Benjamin Marak, who surrendered before the police on July 12 was not the political secretary" of the organisation. GNLA stated that his role was limited to "hit and run cases".

NS

GNLA has threatened to shut down all mobile towers if the outfit was not allowed 'to provide information and interact with people of the region through the social networking site', face book. Earlier Meghalaya Police had sought a ban on the page for propaganda by the outfit and till July 17.

Nongstoin/West Khasi Hills

Two assailants claiming to be Khasi members of GNLA were arrested by Nongstoin Police in West Khasi Hill District. They were trapped after they demanded INR 250000 from a trader. The assailants have been identified as Phristar John Mawtyllup and Pharistar Mawtyllup.

NS

GNLAaccused the State Government of deliberately delaying the investigation into the killing of the son of Oragitok Nokma, Sengbat Ch Marak, on March 4.

NS

ANVC-B 'chairman' Bernard Rimpu N. Marak reached out to 'commander in chief' of GNLA with an appeal to join the "mainstream" for the betterment of Garo hills. He stated "Come forward and join the mainstream. Let us work in the best interest of the people of Garo hills through peaceful democratic means. People are praying for peace, which can materialise only through our join efforts. I feel it is high time to bury the hatchet. Sohan can do much to the people as a tribal leader, which indeed is the need of the hour."

Nongshram/West Khasi Hills

GNLA militants numbering around two dozen ambushed a Police convoy that was travelling on the Tura-Williamnagar-Nongstoin-Shillong road at Nongshram area inside West Khasi Hills. Police sources stated that 'action unit' of GNLA directly supervised by militant chief Sohan D Shira was behind the ambush. No casualties have been reported.

NS

GNLA denied role in the ambush on August 8. GNLA stated that , it has been confirmed that the attack was undertaken by a combined group of ASAK, UALA, AMEF and GNLA deserters and some new members..

NS

GNLA has formed seven-member 'special operation team' known as 'Eagle Hunters' to attack Police personnel. They stated that "Our Eagle Hunters team will shoot Police personnel dead on the spot no matter how many police personnel are there at the time of the incident,".

Sakalgre/ West Garo Hills

A GNLA militant identified as Chongbeng N Marak was killed in an encounter at Sakalgre school compound on the foothills of Nokrek national park in West Garo Hills District. . Police recovered a 9 mm pistol and two GNLA identity cards.

NS

UNLFWESA, CorCom, GNLA and HNLC have jointly called for total shut down in North East India from August 14 midnight till 6 pm of August 15

Dobu Achakgre / Songsak / East Garo Hills

Suspected cadres of GNLA attacked a Police outpost in Dobu Achakgre near Songsak in East Garo Hills when the Police was raising the National Flag in the outpost at 7 am. According to Police, the militants fired a few rounds and then fled into the jungles nearby. The bullets hit a door of a school where the policemen were sitting. No one was hurt, the Police added.

Rongkamenchi village / Resubelpara / North Garo Hills District

A Policeman, Bijoy Momin, who was on his way Mendipathar in his motorcycle, was stopped by alleged GNLA militants and assaulted before his bike was set on fire at Rongkamenchi village near Resubelpara in North Garo Hills District. "Twelve heavily armed militants stopped him, beat him up and torched his bike. While the rebels were thrashing the constable, villagers gathered at the spot, forcing the militants to fire in the air and flee," said North Garo Hills SP Ramesh Singh.

Dobu Achakgre/East Garo Hills

Suspected GNLA militants attacked a Police outpost in Dobu Achakgre near Songsak in East Garo Hills when the Police was raising the National Flag. No one was hurt.

Rongkamenchi/North Garo Hills

A Police man Bijoy Momin, who was on his way Mendipathar in his motorcycle, was stopped by alleged GNLA militants and assaulted before his bike was set on fire at Rongkamenchi village near Resubelpara in North Garo Hills.

NS

Most of cadres of GNLA refused to adhere to the orders of Sohan D Shira to attack VIPs and disrupt the Independence Day celebrations.

NS

A Police official said . "It didn't fructify because the cadres refused to carry out the orders", stated the official besides claiming that the security agencies infiltration into the GNLA has make a difference to defy the cruel diktat that can create more home to the civilian population.

Sawekolgre/ South Garo Hills

South Garo Hills Police shot dead a Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) 'deputy area commander' Silbirth M Sangma at Sawekolgre village in Chokpot Region in South Garo Hills District. Police stated that Silbirth was involved in planting IEDs targeting Police vehicles and personnel at Raja Rongat tri-junction in January 2015 and lobbing of grenade at a wine store near Abiagre in South Garo Hills, procuring of arms & ammunitions from Bangladesh.

Police had a short skirmish with GNLA militants near Paromgre village in South Garo Hills. The exchange of fire lasted a few minutes but there were no casualties.

GNLA warned non-tribal candidates to abstain from taking part in GHADC polls. "Anyone taking part in the poll process will be responsible for their own fate," the outfit threatened. It also asked the political parties not to encourage non-tribal people in the district council polls. "The GHADC is solely meant for the benefit and welfare of the Garos. No political party or law can ever change the heritage of the A''chik," the release said.

NS

GNLA has threatened retaliation against non-tribals who vote or fight in GHADC polls. GNLA stated that "Any non-tribal candidate taking part in the upcoming election or even to cast their vote in the election will be responsible for their own fate. Any political parties or individuals involved in doing so will have to contend with the GNLA".

Chokpot/South Garo HIlls

Two Assam based areca nut traders who were abducted by GNLA while visiting Chokpot region of south Garo Hills have been released. It was revealed that they had to pay INR 300000 to GNLA.

Patalgre village / East Garo Hills District

A hardcore militant of the GNLA was shot dead in an encounter after Police raided their forest hideout near Patalgre village of East Garo Hills District of Meghalaya. SWAT commandos of Meghalaya Police had launched an operation in the area following intelligence reports about the presence of a large number of militants in the forests near Patalgre village. During the battle, a senior militant identified as Katrak D Shira was shot dead and an AK rifle recovered. The rest of the militants fled into the forests.

Williamnagar / East Garo Hills District

Suspected GNLA militants killed two Policemen near a hanging bridge at Kusumkolgre in Williamnagar of East Garo Hills District. The two Constables, Helpingstone Nongkseh, and Kundan Dalu, both 24, in civilian clothes, were travelling from the Bolkingre camp to Williamnagar on a motorcycle around 3 pm when the militants opened fire, killing them on the spot. "It is really a sad day for us. The militants fired at them from point-blank range," said East Garo Hills, ASP Anand Mishra. He said the Constables were on their way to Williamnagar to collect money from an ATM, when the incident took place.

East Garo Hills District

Police commandos in East Garo Hills District attacked a GNLA camp that was set up recently to house fresh recruits and reportedly injured three cadres during the gun battle. Based on intelligence reports about presence of a new militant camp across the Simsang River, Police launched a search operation. As the commandos advanced towards a hillock not far from Songmagre Gittim village, close to District headquarters Williamnagar, GNLA sentries perched above spotted the raiding Police party and raised the alarm. "There was a very heavy exchange of fire for some time and our boys spotted around three cadres sustaining injuries," informed SP Davis Nestell R Marak. The militants abandoned their positions and fled with their injured comrades leaving behind a hand grenade, three wireless communication handsets, GNLA documents and camp items such as food stock, bags and tents. According to Police, the camp was run by senior cadres Rakkam, Baltius and Hebel who are believed to have been present at the time of the encounter.

Williamnagar / East Garo Hills District

Two suspected members of a 'kidnappers' gang' alleged to be involved in a string of cases have been executed by GNLA militants in Chi A'ding area and their bodies dumped on the road connecting Jengjal with Williamnagar in East Garo Hills District. The bodies of the two victims were spotted by passersby travelling on the new highway. Both the victims had multiple bullet wounds on their bodies and Police later recovered as many as seven empty shells of AK ammunition from the spot. GNLA outfit which has a history of killing dacoits and kidnappers trespassing into their territory remains the prime suspect in this case also. One of the victims, identified as Ambar N Marak of Songsak, was the prime accused in the kidnapping of a local trader, Dilip Marak, over two weeks ago while the other is yet to be identified.

The AMEF claimed in a release that the three militants killed in last week's encounter at Shallang in West Khasi Hills were deserters. The outfit also claimed that the trio was involved in abduction of pharmacist Akbar Ali from Rongjeng in East Garo Hills. One of those killed, Dakchak, AMEF's 'deputy commander-in-chief', was inducted in the outfit as a trainer. According to the release, his behaviour was not becoming, so he was given a warning and choose to leave the outfit. The outfit also claimed that vested interests were killing and abducting people and putting the blame on the AMEF and GNLA.

A suspected GNLA militant was killed in an encounter with the Police and one Policeman and one militant were injured in Goalpara District of Assam. District SP Nitul Gogoi said, on getting information about militants coming to Damra to kidnap an individual, Police launched an operation to arrest them. On seeing the Police, the two militants travelling on a motorcycle fired at them in an attempt to flee, Gogoi said. In the exchange of fire, the extremist was killed and his associate along with the policeman were injured, he said. A pistol was recovered from the slain militant, Gogoi added.

The BDO of Chokpot region in South Garo Hills District has been abducted by suspected GNLA militants near Deku. Jude Rangku T Sangma, a 2010 Meghalaya Civil Service batch officer, left Chokpot block office around 4:30 pm enroute to Tura and had stopped over at a funeral of a relative in Deku Deganggre village. The armed militants took the BDO hostage and chased away his two companions while leaving the vehicle behind on the roadside. Police sources reveal that GNLA 'commander' Hedeo Ch Momin alias Karak was the mastermind behind the abduction of the BDO.

The GNLA threatened to execute abducted BDO of Chokpot, Jude Rangku T Sangma, if the government does not stop counter-insurgency operations in Garo Hills. The outfit released a photograph of the official and also asked his family to ensure that the operation was put on halt in November. "If the government doesn't stop and withdraw the operations against us and others (militants) in the Garo hills region within this week, we will be compelled to shoot the Meghalaya government official who is still in our custody," the outfit's joint publicity secretary, Garo Mandei Marak, said in a release. In another release, Marak said, "GNLA is asking the family members of BDO Jude Rangku T. Sangma and the government to withdraw the operations against us immediately from the entire Garo hills region." The outfit warned that if a Police team arrived at the spot where the official is being held, it would immediately shoot him. "If operations against militants are not put to an end, we will kill the officer and his body might never be found again even for a proper burial," the outfit threatened, adding, "We won't hesitate to shoot him." "To avoid such happenings, we demand the withdrawal of operations from all of Garo hills against us throughout the month of November for his safe release or else we will be left with no options and negotiations," the release to the family said.

Five days after Chokpot BDO Jude Rangku T Sangma, who was abducted by GNLA militants from Deku Deganggre village on October 27, Police are still clueless on the whereabouts of the official. Police sources have admitted to lack of information on the fate of the BDO. A day after the kidnap, the GNLA claimed responsibility for the abduction and stated that the officer had blamed the outfit and politicians for the delay in implementation of projects and withdrawal of funds worth over INR 40 crore. The GNLA has set a November-end deadline for the State Government to stop anti-insurgency operations in Garo Hills in return for the safe release of the BDO. Incidentally, Police officials are tight-lipped on whether operations against militants will continue or has been stopped.

The proscribed GNLA announced that the Chokpot, BDO, Jude Rangku T Sangma, in South Garo Hills District was released from its custody unharmed. The outfit informed this through a social media statement, posted by a social media account holder, Takim Shira under the hash tag 'Garo News 24 Hours (Live)', only mentioned in the local Garo language that the officer had been released since his custody was no longer required by the group. The release also went on to say that in the future any government officer "who goes against the outfit will face a similar ordeal by being in their custody."

Two GNLA militants, identified as Evenezer Ch. Marak (22), and Jimberth Ch. Marak (30), were arrested from Rongram, on the outskirts of Tura in the West Garo Hills District.

Suspected GNLA militants abducted two persons, a Police head constable, identified as Khomraj Bhattarai and an unidentified Assam-based civilian, in North Garo Hills District. According to reports, Khomraj Bhattarai was on his way to Songsak, his place of posting, in a public transport when suspected GNLA militants belonging to 'area commander' Pilliport D Shira waylaid the vehicle at Tapa Darengchi area, approximately 16 kms from Mendipather town. The militants dragged out Bhattarai from the vehicle along with another civilian and took them away into the forests. Reports added that North Gato Hills Police arrested Ronangbill Marak of Dilma Monngpanggro and Lukash R Marak of the same village in this connection and the interrogation is in progress.

Meghalaya Police said it has intensified operations against militant and terrorist groups in Garo Hills, days after the Meghalaya High Court said Army operations maybe considered to bring normalcy in the affected region. IGP (Law and Order) GHP Raju said the State Police together with Central Armed Police Forces have intensified operations in Garo Hills to rein in the militant and terrorist groups. The area of operations is around Durama Hills in East Garo Hills District, a hotbed of most of the militants, including GNLA. "

Goeragre / West Garo Hills District

Meghalaya Police arrested a GNLA linkman, identified as Blutcher Sangma from 2nd Meghalaya Police battalion in Goeragre in West Garo Hills, where he appeared for the post of a jail warder. Police said on frisking they recovered 60 SIM cards from his possession. On interrogation, he confessed that the SIM cards were meant for GNLA. "After committing crimes such as kidnapping, extortion, criminal intimidation, they discard these SIM cards," Police said.

North Garo Hills District

Khomraj Bhattarai of the 6th Meghalaya Police Battalion, who was abducted by GNLA on November 6, has remained untraced, even as the DGP Rajiv Mehta paid a visit to Resubelpara in North Garo Hills to review the ongoing operations to trace the abducted Policeman.

Shillong

Armed militants in Meghalaya are using pre-activated SIM cards originating from other NE states like Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura compounding the problem of abduction and extortion. "In all the kidnappings and extortions in Garo Hills region, all militants and criminals have used pre-activated SIM cards originating from Nagaland, Manipur and Tripura," IGP (Operations) G H P Raju said. The matter came to light after the Police detained a young man who appeared for the post of jail warder on November 9, at Tura in West Garo Hills District from whom Police seized 60 unauthorised SIM cards, he said. While a case was registered against the man identified as Blutcher Sangma, Police claimed the SIM cards were meant to be delivered to the GNLA. According to Raju, GNLA and other militant groups rely on black SIM cards for their communication to commit crimes such as abduction, extortion and criminal intimidation.

East Garo Hills District

Two GNLA cadres including an 'area commander' were arrested by Police in East Garo Hills. According to Police, the 'area commander' Chekan Marak alias Bawan and another cadre Ronseng N Marak were arrested from a house at Dobu. Bawan was involved in several criminal cases including killing a GNLA cadre identified as Riknang Sangma alias Wanding.

Byrnihat Police outpost / Ri Bhoi District

SF personnel recovered a powerful bomb from a car at Rangsakona village under Byrnihat Police outpost in Ri Bhoi District. The bomb, planted by suspected GNLA militants, was later diffused by a team of bomb disposal squad. According to Police, bomb was recovered from a car (ML-10-B-1044) owned by a contractor, Gilbert Sangma. The contactor said that the militant group demanded INR 600,000 and threatened to kill him. Bomb squad in-charge, B. Purkayastha said that it was a remote-controlled IED, which can be triggered with a mobile phone SIM card from a distance. The other bomb, which GNLA claimed was hidden near Sangma's house, was yet to be found, Purkayastha said.

Shillong

Use of illegal SIMs has been the common feature in all the 87 cases of abductions reported in Garo Hills in Meghalaya this year. Police sources from Garo Hills informed that during the recent visit of DGP Rajiv Mehta to Garo Hills, all the District Police chiefs were asked to study the 87 abduction cases reported in Garo Hills in 2015 and find the crucial factors that helped militants and other armed criminal gangs in commuting these crimes. Police sources also revealed that out of the 87 cases reported, 62 abductions were committed by armed criminal gangs and seven by GNLA while the rest of the abductions were carried out by other armed groups such as ASAK, AMEF and LAEF. According to Police, pre-activated SIMs originating from Nagaland, Manipur, Tripura and Assam have become the main source of communication for militants and criminals alike.

West Garo Hills District

Four suspected GNLA linkmen, identified as Nobin D Sangma (64) of Nidanpur and Peri Ao of Peren District of Nagaland, Livingstone Ch Maral of Williamnagar and Blagranj R Marak of Nengmendal, were arrested by the West Garo Hills District Police. According to Police sources, 12 rounds of AK ammunitions and an extortion note of GNLA amounting to INR 150,000 were recovered from their possession.

East Garo Hills District

Police arrested a GNLA cadre from near Rongsak market in East Garo Hills during a late night operation. The suspected militant Salsrang Ch Marak alias Mogo (22) hailed from Rongsak Songgital village.

North Garo Hills District

The North Garo Hills Police arrested a GNLA cadre identified as Tenang K Sangma alias Lothe of Thapa Agitchak. Tenang works with 'area commander' of the outfit Philiport D Shira. Police said that he was involved in the theft of one SLR, from the Sixth MLP battalion camp on March 25 this year along with one Ali Hussain alias Alendro Marak. It may be mentioned that Ali was arrested by North Garo Hills Police on October.

North Garo Hills District

Based on the lead given by Tenang arrested on November 17, another GNLA cadre, Walison M Sangma of Rongdan village was arrested. Walison was arrested in connection with the abduction of MLP personnel, Khomraj Bhattarai on November 6. "He is the key person who facilitated the kidnapping of Bhattarai from Thapa Darengchi," North Garo Hills, SP said.

Williamnagar / East Garo Hills District

Meghalaya Police arrested a key aide of the C-in-C of GNLA, Sohan D Shira. The aide identified as Hendinath Ch Marak (Malmepa) during interrogation revealed his close links as well as details of the businesses he managed for the GNLA chief. Malmepa was arrested from his residence at Bawegre, Williamnagar in East Garo Hills. "Malmepa supplies food and other items to Sohan. He also disclosed that he was looking after the properties of Sohan, including his rubber garden, newly constructed house at Bawegre village, fish ponds, amongst others", said GHP Raju, IGP (Operations). Police later recovered the phone of Malmepa and found a SIM card being used by him. The origin of the SIM is from Dimapur in Nagaland.

Shillong

A top leader of the GNLA, Rakirak G Momin alias Jarek, surrendered before the Meghalaya Police. Rakirak, who is the 'deputy area commander' of the outfit did not deposit any arms, Police sources said adding that the surrender was the result of continuous operations by Police during the last few weeks. He (Rakirak) disclosed to Police that he got disillusioned with Sohan D Shira and his style of functioning. Alleging favouritism in the GNLA camp, Rakirak accused Sohan D Shira of favouring other cadres of GNLA from his own D Shira clan at the cost of other Garo Clan cadres.

South Garo Hills District

The Chokpot Police, South Garo Hills District arrested a GNLA militant, identified as Toberth G Momin (24) of Ganggugre village. He was instrumental in the abduction of Chokpot BDO Jude Sangma. According to IG, operations, GHP Raju, Toberth was under surveillance for some time as his activities have come under the Police scanner. "He was instrumental in providing information about the movements of the BDO on that day," Raju said. A bike, his mobile and three SIM cards were seized from his possession.

Shillong

The BSF provided documentary proof to its Bangladesh counterpart, BGB, of Indian insurgent groups having camps in the neighbouring country, BSF officials said in Shillong. A BSF delegation led by IG Meghalaya Frontier, Sudesh Kumar provided the documentary proof to BGB in a bilateral meeting held in Sylhet on November 18. The BSF cited that camps belonging to GNLA, ULFA, HNLC, NDFB and NLFT have camps in Bangladesh, BSF officials said. Besides insurgency, the BSF also raised the issue of FICN being printed in Bangladesh and being pushed into India by Bangladeshi nationals. "Commission of trans-border crimes like smuggling of fake Indian currency notes, forest produce and cattle theft, dacoities in Indian Territory committed by Bangladeshi nationals and criminals inside Indian Territory were also discussed during the meeting," the officials added. The BSF also discussed with its counterpart the construction of single row fence within 150 yards from the IB with the BGB officials for obtaining clearance from Bangladesh Government for the construction.

West Garo Hills District

Meghalaya Police arrested eight persons who work for the GNLA as couriers and distributers of extortion notes. Meghalaya Police have identified GNLA cadres who are working as couriers and informers in Chokpot, Tura and Daddengre areas and carried out operations to arrest these GNLA cadres. In the operation four GNLA linkmen were arrested from Chokpot area. The four have been identified as-Batchan T Sangma (33) of Wagebokgre village, Latdin M Sangma (22) of Rongsinma village, Naibinath Ch Sangma (28) of Wategre Songgital, Gasuapara and Nalu T Sheik (32) of Goraghata, Mankachar in Dhubri District of Assam.

West Garo Hills District

Tura Police also arrested four hardcore GNLA cadres who are given the responsibility to identify potential businessmen and distribute extortion letters for the outfit. The arrested members are Talseng G Momin (22), Ballison Ch Marak (20) both of Kherapara, West Garo Hills, Batchan M Sangma (29) of Danadugre in Sanknigre South Garo Hill and Disim M Marak alias Bilgrak alias Jang (18) of Dilsigre, Dadenggre. The arrested cadres disclosed that GNLA pays them INR 1000 per letter. The arrested GNLA cadres also disclosed that the victims never come nor inform the Police about these demand letters received by them.

East Garo Hills District

Police arrested Jerome Momin, the former commander- in-chief of ANVC, currently under peace pact, for allegedly selling sophisticated weapons and ammunition to self styled commander in chief of GNLA, Sohan D Shira, in exchange of money worth INR 1.7 million. Police personnel from Williamnagar, the headquarters of East Garo Hills District, raided the house of Jerome, and arrested him in connection with selling of weapons to GNLA, a revelation which will have far reaching consequences for the disbanded ANVC which is still waiting for the fulfilment of Agreed Text of Settlement signed in September last year. IG, operations, GHP Raju, in a statement issued on November 25 said Jerome had sold three big weapons and ammunition at a cost of INR 1.7 million to Sohan.

West Garo Hills District

Surrendered GNLA cadre identified as Kenny Rozar Sangma alias Jack was lynched by villagers at Chigitchagre village under Dadenggre civil sub division in West Garo Hills, over allegations that he was involved in extortion and criminal activities including abductions.

North Garo Hills District

The army in a release confirmed the killing of the two civilians, identified as Sweetbirth D Marak (30) of Rajasimla and Alphius Momin (35), a teacher also from Rajasimla on November 25, however, the release clarified that the two were killed when they failed to stop at checkpoint after being asked to. The release clarified that the army had specific information of two GNLA cadres moving in a motorcycle and as such had set up a checkpoint on the Kharkutta-Khilor road. Both the motorcyclists, when signalled to stop, accelerated their bike and tried to escape. Due to the huge back blast and flash from the bike's silencer and due to prevailing pitch darkness, it seemed the bikers had opened fire. The troops returned fire in self defence, due to which the bikers were hit and died on the spot.

East Garo Hills District

A GNLA cadre surrendered before SFs in Garo Hills. According to Police, Sengku, surrendered before the Rongsak, ADC in East Garo Hills District. He was a recruit of the sixth batch of GNLA. Sengku disclosed to the Police that GNLA 'commander-in-chief', Sohan D Shira attended a programme at Durama general camp from where he passed out after training in the camp for three months. Sengku told Police that he surrendered since he did not want to continue in the GNLA as there was rampant indiscipline and everyone in the outfit were committing crimes to make quick money. He expects more desertions from the GNLA soon. He however, did not surrender any arms.

West Garo Hills District

One person, Sanjay Das (43), of Tura in West Garo Hills District has been arrested for preparing GNLA seal which were recovered during an operation.

Rongjeng / East Garo Hills District

Four AMEF militants surrendered before Police at Rongjeng in East Garo Hills District. The cadres identified as Niksrang alias Rarik, Chiseng alias Guare, Basrang alias Asilang and Sudrakar alias Mikjrao surrendered along with arms and ammunition. The cadres said they wanted to return to the mainstream after being fed up of 'jungle life'. Three were originally from GNLA before defecting to ASAK and then to AMEF. The surrendered cadres laid down a AK 56, AK 81, carbine, pistol, 78 AK rounds, 9 mm rounds, .32 rounds, demand pads and receipt book.

Shillong

Troops of the BSF deployed along the Meghalaya portion of the Indo-Bangladesh border arrested 76 Bangladeshi nationals - all engaged in smuggling and criminal activities - and recovered over 1,300 cattle and other contraband during the past one year. A BSF Meghalaya Frontier spokesman said the troops also arrested two militants and 10 OGW of different militant outfits during the year, while one GNLA militant surrendered before the troops. "Those apprehended during the year included 68 Bangladeshi and 35 Indian smugglers apart from eight other Bangladeshi criminals. The seizure included several firearms, fake Indian currency notes valued at Rs 12,500, 4674 bottles of phensedyl, 20 kgs of hemp, 1312 cattle, wooden logs worth Rs 1.85 crore and other contraband items worth Rs 61.55 crore," the BSF spokesman said. While Meghalaya shares 443 kilometres of the 4096 kilometres Indo-Bangladesh international boundary, as many as nine battalions of the BSF are deployed for border domination and border management. Ten companies of the BSF are also deployed in other parts of the state, he said.

Durama Hills / East Garo Hills District

East Garo Hills Police commandos killed the chief of the 'action group' of GNLA during an encounter in the forests of Durama Hills. SWAT commandos of the State Police exchanged fire with a group of heavily armed GNLA militants led by the outfit's 'action commander' Kennedy T Sangma alias Hebel in which the militant chief was shot dead. The dead body of Hebel has been retrieved by Police. The operations team of the State Police recovered from the site of the encounter two AK rifles and a powerful Russian made Draganov sniper rifle along with 24 live AK rounds, an empty AK ammo case, 2 live rounds of 7.62 calibre for the sniper rifle and four mobile handsets. "The exchange of fire was intense for around 10-15 minutes during which the GNLA action commander Hebel was killed. We believe many more may have sustained injuries since they abandoned three weapons at the site," said SP Davis Marak.

Shahlang / South West Khasi Hills District

The KSU SWKH unit, set a 24-hour deadline to the GNLA militant group to release the two Khasi youths, who were abducted from Shahlang village on November 29. The two Khasi youths were identified as Jamesterly Lyngkhoi (24) from Mawthawpdah village and John Paul Kharsyiemiong (26) from Mawsdei village. Addressing a news conference in Shillong, general secretary of KSU's SWKH unit, F Nongrem, said, "We have demanded the rebels to release the two youths within 24 hours." He informed that the EC of the Union has decided to hold a public meeting on December 10 at Mawkyrwat in West Khasi Kills District to discuss about the future course of action, if the two youths are not released.

West Khasi Hills District

Meghalaya Police, rescued two youths from remote West Khasi Hills after suspected GNLA militants abducted them. Meghalaya IGP, operations, GHP Raju said, on November 29, suspected GNLA militants entered the residence of Vincent Nongmin of Sohbar village in West Khasi Hills. While Nongmin, who is a trader, managed to escape and went to inform Shallang Police Station, the militants abducted two of his employees who were identified as Johnstarly Lyngkhoi (26), and John Paul Kharsyiemiong (25). Since then, Raju said West Khasi Police along with Border Security Force (BSF) personnel conducted search operations in areas like Wahthre, Dadu, Waso Dymmit, Daso, Dalbot, Awek, Chongbeng and Rangjam. During one of the operations held, the Police arrested Hubert Sangma of Shallang village, Raju said. Sangma, who is suspected to be an extortionist for the GNLA, came to collect money from a victim. "He (Sangma) disclosed details about the place where both the abducted persons were kept. The police raided the site this afternoon. Seeing the police, the militants fled, leaving Lyngkhoi and Kharsyiemiong behind. Both were rescued by the police and are in good health. The militants escaped into the dense jungles," Raju said.

Rongsak village / East Garo Hills District

Williamnagar Police arrested a GNLA militant from Rongsak village in East Garo Hills District. According to Police, the GNLA cadre identified as Obadia Gh Marak alias Sengnath (18) was arrested after villagers identified him. He is reported to have stayed in Rupanto's (Deputy Commander) camp for over one year and provided logistic support to the GNLA. Sengnath disclosed that Rupanto has invested a lot of terror funds in Bangladesh.

Tura / West Garo Hills District

One hard core GNLA cadre, identified as Balsrang Ch Momin (23) was arrested by Tura Police when he came to collect extortion money from victims from Tura in West Garo Hills District. According to IGP, GHP Raju, Balsrang was using black SIM cards to threaten the victims. His SIM cards were seized by Police. The arrested GNLA cadre also revealed the modus operandi of extortion of the GNLA from the businessmen and government servants. "They send SMS to these people after obtaining their numbers from their office staff or workers working in the shops," Raju said. He also revealed that some people voluntarily shared the mobile numbers of officers and business people to GNLA and other militant groups to settle personal scores. According to Police, GNLA sends extortion SMSs to these victims ranging from INR five million to INR one million.

Nongshram village / East Garo Hills District

Several top leaders of AMEF, a breakaway faction of GNLA, are all set to surrender. According to sources, the 'chairman' of the outfit Timut Marak of Nongshram village in East Garo Hills and 'command-in-chief' Sengjan Arengh are among those who will give up. Earlier on December 8, the top leaders of AMEF had surrendered before the Police at Rongjeng. Later, Police had waited for some more cadres to surrender before arranging the official surrender ceremony at Police headquarters on December 9.

Shillong

In the last 11 months, 39 Garo Hills based militants have been killed and 218 others were arrested and 54 others surrendered in the militancy affected Districts of the State, as per Police records. Eleven each of the GNLA and the AMEF along with three ASAK cadres were killed in encounters while the number of arrest and the surrender indicating the type of mounting operations carried out by the State Police on the rebels who have been virtually holding the five strife torn Districts of Garo Hills into ransom. There were 93 incidents involving the GNLA and 37 with the AMEF, 8 with the LAEF and a couple of others with the ULFA and the NDFB. While 62 GNLA were arrested in the past one year, there were 36 AMEF and 18 ASAK cadres who were arrested this year alone. The others belong to lesser known groups like the UALA, ANCA, ANUF, GNAF, UANF, ANLA-all of which have been attributed as armed groups involved in kidnapping for ransom and extortion in the guise of fighting for a separate Garoland.

Shillong

In an indication that Garo Hills has become a war zone area, more than 18 civilians have been killed in Garo Hills this year by militants while 108 were abducted. Police statistics revealed that from January 1 to December 8, 2015, 18 civilians were killed by militants while 19 others were also injured. Statistics showed that GNLA killed 2 civilians and injured 11 others while 6 civilians were abducted including 1 Police personnel, adding GNLA also killed 6 Police and injured 10 others of them. Similar is the case with LAEF which injured 1 Police and abducted 1 civilian. ASAK and AMEF also killed two civilians each while AMEF abducted 13 civilians. ASAK also killed one Police this year. The militants who were relegated from the militant groups killed 12 civilians and injured 6. They were also involved in abduction of 81 civilians.

Tapa Darengchi / North Garo Hills District

North Garo Hills Police recovered a highly decomposed body partially buried in a shallow grave which is believed to be that of abducted Police Constable Khomraj Bhattarai in Tapa Darengchi area, of North Garo Hills District. Bhattarai was returning to his duty after availing a home leave when armed GNLA militants stopped the commercial winger vehicle he was travelling on and took him away on November 6. They dragged away Bhattarai and the handyman of the winger, Muslo Hussain, who happened to drive the vehicle on that day. The handyman, who was separated from Bhattarai soon after the abduction, was released unharmed twenty days later. Bhattarai was a Head Constable in the Sixth MLP battalion and was going to his place of posting in Songsak to resume his duties. The GNLA had tried to distance itself from the incident by issuing a press statement soon after the abduction blaming other groups and criminal gangs for the abduction. Despite their denial, Police had identified 'area commander' Pilliport D Shira's group to be the mastermind of the abduction and subsequent execution of the unarmed Policeman.

North Garo Hills District

A GNLA cadre, identified as Epseng D Shira (26) wanted for a several number of criminal activities including extortion, abductions and possibly killing surrendered to Police in North Garo Hills District. Shira hailing from Damas Kashkona village of the District was a wanted man for a long time. He was one of the main persons who served demand notes and extorted money from the public on behalf of the GNLA. During his surrender he handed over a 7.65 pistol with seven rounds of ammunition. According to Police, Epseng allegedly disclosed that money to the tune of INR 2.7 million was extorted from businessmen, government officials in Mendipather region. The money was reportedly sent to GNLA 'chief' Sohan D Shira through 'area commander' Pilliport D Shira in small instalments of INR 200,000 to INR 500,000 as and when they received the demand amount from their victims.

Shillong

Home Minister Roshan Warjri asserted that the State government was determined to crush militants who were trying to destabilize the efforts of the government and the citizens to ensure normalcy in Garo Hills. While condemning the killing of Havildar Khomraj Bhattarai by GNLA militants, Warjri said, "This criminal act by the militant groups has only strengthened the resolve of the government in its efforts to crush these attempts at destabilizing peace and normalcy in the region." In the statement issued to the media, the Home Minister also reiterated the government's commitment to bring the perpetrators of the heinous crime to justice. "Such acts of cowardice only aims at destabilizing the joint efforts of the government and the citizens at large in working together in restoring peace and security and in building the confidence of the people," Warjri said.

Rongjeng / East Garo Hills District

Three hardcore AMEF cadres identified as Pendu Sangma, Joy Arengh and Tanisha Sangma, who happens to be the girlfriend of an AMEF cadre known as Sakrem, were arrested during a routine vehicle checking undertaken by Rongjeng Police in East Garo Hills District. On the leading of Pendu Sangma, a team of Rongjeng Police went to Jangchigittim, Nongshram via Rongdu Reserve and found the hideout where AMEF cadres led by their new 'chairman' Matchang and new 'C-in-C' Cheang were staying in the bachelor house (Nokpante) of Pendu Sangma. When the Police team ordered the militants to surrender they opened fire at the Police team leading to a brief exchange of fire. In the exchange of fire one militant identified as Lekichand Sangma of Jangchigittim received bullet injury on the leg and was arrested and given medical treatment at Rongjeng CHC. Matchang is also suspected to have sustained bullet injury on his stomach. Two other cadres, identified as Chandra Marak of Dekmik and Itdom Marak of Dekmik, were also arrested from the spot. Police also recovered a SLR magazine and 29 live SLR rounds, one 9mm magazine and two live 9mm rounds and GNLA ID card of Matchang Marak, 20 nos. of AMEF demand notes, round seal of AMEF, one black magazine pouch and two empty cases of SLR. Police informed that search operations were continuing to trace the other AMEF militants who escaped from the hideout.

Williamnagar / East Garo Hills District

A grenade was hurled at a busy store by unidentified miscreants at Williamnagar in East Garo Hills District of Meghalaya. There was no report of any casualty as the grenade failed to explode. Police suspect the incident to be the handiwork of the GNLA though the exact reason for the attack is yet to be ascertained.

Shillong

The GNLA asked for restraint from Khasi NGOs as well as the HNLC even as it claimed that abductions in Garo Hills in Meghalaya seem to be the handiwork of dacoit groups and not of any militant group."Jumping to hasty conclusions without proper information just because police has put a blame based on suspicion is uncalled for", said the GNLA publicity secretary, Gantong Marak while referring to abductions of a Khasi coal businessman from West Khasi Hills District. The abductions have led to tensions between the communities with the HNLC as well as other NGOs threatening to strike back at the Garo community. "This will create a negative assumption on our community when the fact is actually not confirmed that it is the work of Garo militants", added Marak issuing a press communiqué. "There are crooks, a mixture of all communities going about committing all kinds of crimes. So why blame only one? Many dacoits take advantage in the name of HNLC, GNLA and other militants groups, be it for abduction, extortion or killing people for ransom," he added.

West Garo Hills District

Three militants of the ASAK were arrested from West Garo Hills District. The first arrest was made by the team from Tikrikilla Police Station wherein during counter insurgency operation one Wagat Sangma, of Kentapara village who is involved in many extortion, abduction and murder cases was arrested from his house. Based on the statement of Wagat, his accomplice - James Sangma (27) of Jengritgre was arrested, who admitted to have links with GNLA Rangdat and Indian also.

North Garo Hills

A constable of sixth Meghalaya Police Battalion posted in North Garo Hills, identified as Sanjib Marak was recently arrested for leaking information about the movement of the Police to GNLA leader Philliport Shira, said a Police official. The arrested constable is currently under judicial custody. Police believed that a number of Police operations failed in North Garo Hills as GNLA came to know about the movement of Police in advance.

Shillong

In spite of the series of success against the anti-national and criminal elements, Meghalaya DGP Rajeev Mehta categorically stated that there are still many tasks left to be accomplished by the state Police. The virtual wiping out of the AMEF, the unconditional surrender of the UALA in the past two months is considered to be an achievement. "We still have an incomplete task of bringing about long lasting peace in Garo Hills and the rest of the State", the DGP said. He expressed hope that the policy adopted by the Police department is expected to reap benefit by next year. Asked on whether it will be in the form of ruthless operations or diplomacy that the police department will adopt in completing the unfinished task, Mehta said, "I am not going to divulge anything but our force will go all out to bring peace". The proscribed GNLA led by Sohan D Shira is a militant group to be reckon with. Acknowledging the reality, Mehta said that the sustained pressure on the groups in all formats will be carried out to pin them down till a point of surrender.