Representational Image. (Pixabay Image)
Kohima, July 25 (MExN): Kohima Police has arrested two cadres of the NSCN/GPRN-K (Michael) faction for allegedly extorting money from truck drivers plying along National Highway-29.
The arrested cadres were identified as Beilie Rupreo (37), a self-styled Lieutenant (SS Leacy) of the outfit, and Kevingulie Metha (39), a self-styled Corporal (SS Khapur), PRO, Kohima Police said.
Acting on “credible information” received at around 11:40 hrs about unidentified individuals extorting truck drivers on NH-29, a police team was rushed to the spot near New SKV Petrol Pump in Merhülietsa Colony in Kohima, the police said.
The team kept the suspects under discreet surveillance and moved in to apprehend them after confirming their extortion activities.
A search of the duo led to the recovery of several extortion slips bearing the name of the “Government of the People's Republic of Nagaland (Finance Committee),” according to police.
A case has been registered at the South Police Station here and further investigation is underway, they said, adding that the accused are being interrogated to trace the wider extortion network, including other operatives, financiers and possible links to extortion rackets in other districts.
Kohima Police reiterated its commitment to keeping the district free of intimidation and extortion, and appealed to citizens, transporters, traders and business establishments to report any extortion or unlawful demands to the nearest police station without fear.
The identity of informants and complainants would be kept strictly confidential, police said, adding that public cooperation remained vital to making Kohima a safe and extortion-free district.
