Daijiworld Media Network - Itanagar

Itanagar, Sep 29: An Assam Rifles havildar was killed and four other personnel injured after suspected militants ambushed a patrol party along the India-Myanmar border in Arunachal Pradesh's Changlang district on Tuesday, officials said.

A police official in Itanagar said the patrol party of the 21 Assam Rifles came under fire from suspected militants while operating in Changlang district, which shares an unfenced border with Myanmar.

The incident took place near Nampong Nallah under Nampong circle when the Assam Rifles personnel were patrolling an area where border fencing work is underway.

The slain havildar was identified as Jangkhokai Kuki, 42, the Assam Rifles said.

According to preliminary reports, the suspected militants opened fire on the patrol team, killing the Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) on the spot and injuring four others.

The injured personnel were shifted to a hospital for treatment. Their condition was not immediately known.

Following the attack, additional security forces were rushed to the area and a massive operation was launched to track down the fleeing militants.

There were reports that cadres belonging to the NSCN-K-YA were involved in the attack, although there was no official confirmation.

Changlang District Superintendent of Police Kirli Padu said he had directed the officer-in-charge of Changlang police station to gather further details about the incident.

The India-Myanmar border in Changlang district has remained sensitive due to the movement of various banned insurgent groups operating in the region and across the international boundary.

Assam Rifles Director General Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera condemned the attack and paid tribute to the slain havildar.

"Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General Assam Rifles & All Ranks of Assam Rifles pay solemn tribute to Hav Jangkhokai Kuki who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty at Changlang, Arunachal Pradesh on 29 Sep 2026 and offer deep condolences to the family of our Brave Soldier. DG Assam Rifles & All Ranks of Assam Rifles stand firmly with the bereaved family," the paramilitary force said in a post on its X handle.

Further details of the incident are awaited.

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