Assam: One ULFA-I cadre killed in Tinsukia during encounter with security forces, claim sources

A gun fight broke out between Assam police and cadres of the United Liberation Front of Asom – Independent (ULFA-I) in Margherita, Assam, in the early hours of February 9 in which one militant was killed, as per sources.

According to the initial reports, the incident occurred near Margherita town in the Tinsukia district of Assam at Tikak Mulung Parbat.

An operation was launched and a team of police officers set out to capture a group of ULFA-I cadres who were hiding there after receiving information about their presence.

However, upon reaching the location, both parties exchanged gunfire, with one ULFA-I cadre, identified as Udai Axom, reportedly being killed in the exchange. According to reports, the firing started in the early hours of this morning.

The insurgent group's self-styled Sergeant Major, Udai Axom, is said to have been hiding out with a group of cadres in Margherita, according to reports.

As per reports, Udai Axom left home in 2012 and became a hardcore ULFA-I cadre in 2013. It is reported that Udai Axom was behind all major extortion cases in Upper Assam. Sources claim that the ULFA-I cadre was also involved in the recent extortion case wherein ULFA-I cadre Udai Axom was Rupam Axom's (extortion specialist) right hand man. 

Official sources report that Udai Axom was taking shelter in Margherita along with 7 other cadres of the proscribed militant group. The team also constituted of one hardcore cadre Mriganka Axom. 

In addition, the police have yet to provide details regarding the casualties in the Tinsukia shooting.
It should be noted that security forces and unidentified ultras engaged in an altercation earlier in November 2022 at Pengeri, which is located in the Tinsukia district of Assam.

As an immediate response to the firing, the Digboi-Pengeri road was temporarily closed for security reasons.

Also read : Assam: Student facing trial in ULFA blast case tops class in MA exam