Guwahati, 8th January: In the dense jungles of Myanmar, an alleged drone attack targeted a camp associated with the United Liberation Front of Assam (Independent), or ULFA(I), on January 8, according to ULFA’s press statement. The camp in Myanmar serves as one of several bases for cross-border operations into India, providing shelter and training grounds for recruits.
ULFA(I), led by Paresh Baruah, claimed that the Indian Army carried out the attacks. Sources indicate that the first drone attack occurred at 4:10 AM, followed by a second at 4:12 AM, and a third at 4:20 AM. The drones reportedly originated from the border area of Arunachal Pradesh. While the first two drones exploded, the third one failed to detonate, resulting in injuries to two ULFA members.
Paresh Baruah, ULFA(I)’s commander-in-chief, has consistently opposed peace talks with the Indian government, distinguishing his faction from others engaged in dialogue. The group’s survival is attributed in part to external support and connections with insurgent outfits in the Northeast and Myanmar.
The region, including Assam, remains tense as the Indian government endeavors to engage insurgent groups through peace accords. The presence of ULFA(I) in Myanmar and their demonstrated capability to launch attacks from across the border highlights the persistent challenges in achieving lasting peace and security in the area.