Guwahati, Assam: Reports emerging early this morning, July 13, indicate a powerful cross-border drone offensive targeting four camps of the proscribed United Liberation Front of Assam (Independent) or ULFA-I, situated deep inside Myanmar territory. This alleged operation, reportedly carried out by the Indian Army and involving nearly 100 drones, marks one of the most significant strikes against insurgent infrastructure operating from beyond the Indian border in recent times.
Sources suggest that the precision drone strikes led to the death of several ULFA-I cadres. Unconfirmed reports swirling in the region indicate that Lieutenant General Nayan Asom, a highly-ranked commander in the outfit’s military wing, may be among those killed in the audacious strike. Further reports also claim the demise of self-styled Colonel Ganesh Lahon, also known as Ganesh Axom, in the same drone attack.
When contacted, the Indian Army Public Relations Officer (PRO) stated that they do not have any immediate inputs regarding such an operation, maintaining an official silence on the matter. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also clarified that the Assam Police had no role in the alleged offensive and that no official communication has been received from the defence establishment.
While official confirmation from the Indian government or military authorities remains awaited, the reported air raid, if confirmed, underscores a heightened posture against insurgent groups utilising cross-border safe havens. The ULFA-I, in a statement, has confirmed drone attacks on its camps and has further alleged that a missile strike hit the funeral of Lt. Gen. Nayan Asom, claiming the lives of Brigadier Ganesh Asom and Colonel Pradeep Asom, and vowing retaliation. The developing situation continues to be closely monitored.