ES Reporter 

ITANAGAR, May 8:   In a major breakthrough, the Capital Police uncovered a growing militant and trafficking nexus operating under the shadowy name National Socialist Council for Taniland (NSCT) and its armed wing, the United Tani Army (UTA).
The investigation, which began in January this year, has led to multiple arrests, weapon seizures, and disturbing revelations of human trafficking and militant recruitment.
Speaking to reporters, SP Itanagar, Rohit Rajbir Singh (IPS)  informed that, the case came to light after police took suo moto cognizance of threatening videos and letters circulated on social media by the outfit’s self-proclaimed Commander-in-Chief, Anthony Doke—a repeat offender with over 20 prior criminal cases ranging from extortion to firearms violations. A case was promptly registered at Itanagar Police Station (Case No. 06/25) under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Initial arrests of Tana Hasi and Techi Bidu revealed their active roles in recruiting vulnerable youth from economically marginalized communities into the UTA. Alarmingly, one of their schemes involved the attempted trafficking of a minor from the Tarasso region to Myanmar, under the pretext of a job opportunity. The real aim was to enroll him in a militant training camp across the border.
Further investigations found that three boys had already been smuggled out of Itanagar, falsely lured with a promise of participating in a "YouTube shoot." Once across the border, they were forcibly conscripted and subjected to psychological abuse, torture, and harsh military training. Two have since returned, providing firsthand accounts that underscore the seriousness of the group's operations.
A crucial breakthrough came with the recovery of an illegal firearm from Tana Hasi, reportedly provided by Anthony Doke for future criminal use in the Capital Region. A swift response by the police led to the filing of a chargesheet and further tracking of the network's operatives.
On 30 April 2025, follow-up operations led to the arrest of Biro Gumja Tamin, identified as a central figure with connections to the NSCN-KYA, an established insurgent outfit. Tamin was allegedly involved in extorting high-value contractors and facilitating arms smuggling operations. A foreign-made pistol and a significant cache of ammunition were seized from his possession, added the SP.
He further informed that, the interrogation of Tamin exposed a well-organized arms trafficking network with its operational base in Itanagar and ties to insurgent groups in Nagaland. Police subsequently raided the premises of another accomplice, Tapa Nungnu, resulting in the recovery of two additional foreign-made firearms, a large quantity of illegal ammunition, and suspected proceeds from arms sales.
These developments led to the registration of a new case at Itanagar PS (Case No. 72/25) under multiple sections of the BNS, UAPA, and Arms Act, targeting the broader network responsible for distributing and concealing illegal weapons.
Moreover, the investigation has revealed a disturbing link between the arms syndicate and a narcotics trafficking ring operating in the Gohpur-Chimpu corridor. A separate case, Chimpu PS Case No. 25/25, has been registered under the NDPS Act, leading to the arrest of two individuals and the recovery of narcotics.
The Capital Police, under the leadership of senior officials, have affirmed their unwavering commitment to dismantling this dangerous nexus of militancy, trafficking, and organized crime that threatens the safety and integrity of the state. Law enforcement agencies continue to collaborate across jurisdictions to identify and neutralize remaining operatives.
Meanwhile, SP Singh has appealed to the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activity, particularly concerning missing persons or illegal arms movement, emphasizing that community cooperation is vital to safeguard peace and security in Arunachal Pradesh.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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