Arunachal Anti-Drugs Warriors Raise Concern Over Missing Gun Licence

 

Itanagar, May 24:

The Arunachal Pradesh Anti-Drugs Warriors Team has raised concern over the alleged missing gun licence of its President, Shri Gumin Mize, after a visit to the Itanagar Police Station to collect his belongings and submitted materials.

According to sources from the organisation, members of the Arunachal Pradesh Anti-Drugs Warriors Team, accompanied by the APIYO Team, visited the police station to retrieve the belongings and documents related to Shri Gumin Mize. During the process, the team members stated that the Investigating Officer informed them that only the individual who originally submitted the belongings has the authority to reclaim all the deposited items.

However, while verifying the collected belongings and documents, the team reportedly discovered that the gun licence of Shri Gumin Mize was missing from the submitted materials. The matter has since triggered concern among the members of the organisation.

The Arunachal Pradesh Anti-Drugs Warriors Team has urged both the Itanagar Police Station and the Bihpuria Police Station to take responsibility for the missing document and provide proper clarification regarding the issue.

The team further appealed to the concerned authorities to conduct a transparent investigation into the matter and ensure that all belongings and official documents submitted to the police are properly accounted for and returned without discrepancy.

Arunachal Govt Introduces AI-Based Teacher Transfers

 

Itanagar, May 24:

P. D. Sona has announced that all teacher transfers and postings in Arunachal Pradesh will now be carried out through an AI-based portal, with no scope for political or bureaucratic intervention in the process.

Speaking on the reform, the minister stated that the Arunachal Pradesh Transfer and Posting of Employees of Education Department (Regulation and Management) Bill, 2026, was passed unanimously in the State Assembly. The initiative aims to bring greater transparency, fairness, and accountability in the transfer and posting system of teachers across the state.

Sona informed that the Education Department is working to complete the transfer process before the commencement of the new academic session so that teachers are available at their respective schools on time. He added that intra-district teacher transfers have already been completed, while inter-district transfers are currently underway.

Highlighting the existing imbalance in teacher deployment, the minister said that urban areas currently have a higher concentration of teachers, whereas many rural and remote schools continue to face shortages. To address this issue, District Deputy Directors of School Education (DDSEs) have been directed to rationalise teacher distribution, and surplus teachers will be transferred inter-district wherever necessary.

The minister further warned that any attempt to influence transfers through political pressure, recommendations, or unofficial notes (UO notes) would be recorded in the concerned employees’ service records.

According to the government, the reform is expected to improve equitable teacher distribution, particularly in remote and underserved areas, while ensuring a transparent and merit-based transfer system across the state.

Tirap Man’s Tragic Death in Andhra Sparks Outrage Over Alleged Police Negligence

 

Andhra Pradesh/Tirap:

The tragic and untimely death of Late Kamlo Mophuk, aged 51, son of Late Wangkop Mophuk and a resident of Lazu village under Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh, has sparked widespread grief, concern, and outrage across the state.

According to sources, Mr. Mophuk boarded a train from Tinsukia on 16 May 2026 to travel to Bengaluru, where his daughters are employed. During the journey, he was allegedly attacked and physically assaulted by unidentified individuals inside the train. Fearing for his safety, he reportedly got down at Ongole Railway Station in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh on 18 May and attempted to seek assistance from the Railway Police.

However, family members and sources alleged that despite his vulnerable condition and repeated pleas for help, the concerned authorities failed to provide immediate protection or adequate assistance. Mr. Mophuk later reportedly approached the local police station as well, but allegedly received little cooperation or support.

On the evening of 18 May, Mr. Mophuk contacted his daughter, Ngona Mophuk, informing her that some unknown individuals were allegedly following him. He reportedly expressed fear for his safety and mentioned that his mobile phone battery was running low. Later that night, around 11 PM, he spoke to his wife. His final conversation with his daughter reportedly took place the following morning at around 8 AM, after which his phone became switched off and remained unreachable.

Deeply worried by the sudden loss of contact, his daughters residing in Bengaluru immediately began searching for their father from 19 May onwards. Sources claimed that despite repeated requests for assistance, the family allegedly faced negligence, lack of urgency, and poor coordination from the concerned authorities during the crucial initial stages of the search operation.

It was only after the intervention of Hon’ble Minister Shri Wangki Lowang, who personally contacted the concerned authorities and pushed for immediate action, that the police and forest officials reportedly intensified the search efforts.

In a heartbreaking development, Mr. Mophuk’s body was eventually recovered near a cemetery area after authorities traced the location of his mobile phone. Shockingly, sources alleged that although the body was reportedly discovered on 21 May, the information was communicated to the grieving family only on 23 May, further intensifying public anger and criticism over the handling of the case.

Family members, well-wishers, and citizens across Arunachal Pradesh expressed deep sorrow and disappointment, stating that had the authorities shown greater sensitivity, urgency, and proper coordination from the beginning, the tragic outcome might possibly have been prevented.

The incident has now raised serious questions regarding the response mechanism, accountability, and conduct of the concerned officials in Andhra Pradesh. Citizens from various parts of Arunachal Pradesh have appealed for a fair, transparent, and impartial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of Late Kamlo Mophuk and the alleged lapses by the authorities involved.

The people of Tirap district, along with citizens across the state, continue to mourn the loss of a fellow Arunachali whose final days were reportedly marked by fear, helplessness, and unanswered pleas for help.

Tawang Police Holds Student Station Visit Programme

 

Tawang, May 23:

In a significant step towards strengthening community policing and enhancing police-public relations, the Tawang District Police organized a “Police Station Visit” programme across various police stations in the district for students from different schools of Tawang.

The initiative aimed at familiarizing students with the functioning of police stations, creating awareness about social issues, and building trust between the police and the younger generation.

As part of the programme, students of Ideal English School visited Police Station Tawang, where they participated in an interactive session with Shri Tasi Darang, Superintendent of Police, Tawang, Shri Tasso Kato, DySP, L/Insp. Niyi Angu, Officer-in-Charge of PS Tawang, along with other police personnel of the district.

Similarly, students of Green Tara Residential School, Jang visited Police Station Jang under the guidance of Shri Bapok Lego, Officer-in-Charge of PS Jang.

In another programme, students of Monyul Vidya Niketan, Old Lumla and Tsongkhapa English School, Manpat visited Police Station Lumla under the supervision of Shri Ajati Mimi, Officer-in-Charge of PS Lumla.

During the interaction sessions, the students were informed about the role of police in society and were assured that the police are always committed to serving and protecting the public. The officers also conducted awareness sessions on the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol, “Good Touch, Bad Touch,” physical abuse, and introduced the students to the basics of the newly implemented criminal laws.

The visiting students were also taken on a guided tour of the police station premises and various branches, where they were briefed about different facilities and public services available at police stations. Demonstrations of the Wireless Telecommunication (WT) system were also conducted to help students understand modern police communication mechanisms.

The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from the students, who actively interacted with police personnel and gained valuable insight into policing and public safety. The initiative is expected to further strengthen mutual understanding and cooperation between the police and the community in Tawang district.

Massive Cannabis Destruction Drives Conducted in Tawang District

 

Tawang, May 23:

As part of the ongoing campaign against narcotic substances and to promote a drug-free society, Tawang Police carried out multiple cannabis destruction drives in different parts of the district with the support of security forces and local villagers.

A major joint Cannabis Destruction Drive was conducted in collaboration with the 67th Battalion SSB Lungla and villagers of Kharteng and Namtsering in the Namtsering–Kharteng area under the leadership of Shri Ajati Mimi, Officer-in-Charge of Police Station Lungla. During the operation, police and security personnel, along with local residents, cleared an area measuring approximately 2.3 acres where wild cannabis was found growing extensively.

Officials informed that nearly 1500 kilograms of wild cannabis were destroyed during the drive and disposed of by burning on the spot as per prescribed procedure. The operation was aimed at preventing the illegal cultivation and misuse of cannabis in remote areas of the district.

In another similar operation conducted earlier on 15 May 2026, the Jang Police Station team led by Sub-Inspector Bapok Lego, Officer-in-Charge of PS Jang, along with the Tawang Reserve Team, carried out a destruction drive in the Chakzam area under Jang subdivision.

During the drive, wild cannabis plants weighing approximately 0.6 quintals were found growing in scattered patches over an area of nearly 200 square metres. The plants were uprooted and destroyed on the spot following due procedure.

Tawang Police stated that such operations will continue in vulnerable and remote locations across the district as part of the intensified anti-drug campaign. The department also appreciated the cooperation extended by local villagers and security forces in the successful execution of the drives.

The continuous efforts are being undertaken under the broader mission of creating awareness against substance abuse and ensuring a safer, drug-free environment for the younger generation and society at large.

Seppa POCSO Court Sentences Man to 10 Years in Child Sexual Assault Case

 

Seppa, May 22:

The Special Court (POCSO) at Seppa has convicted a man in a child sexual assault case registered in 2021, reaffirming the commitment of law enforcement and the judiciary towards ensuring justice for victims of sexual crimes against children.

According to police, the case began on October 17, 2021, after an FIR was lodged at the Women Police Station (WPS), Seppa, in East Kameng district. The complaint accused the victim’s maternal uncle, identified as Biram Dada, of sexually assaulting the minor victim.

Following the registration of the case under Section 376(2)(f) of the Indian Penal Code along with Sections 4 and 6 of the POCSO Act, the accused was immediately arrested and a detailed investigation was initiated.

The investigation was carried out by Lady Inspector S. Nabam, who was serving as the Officer-in-Charge of WPS Seppa at the time, under the supervision of the Superintendent of Police, East Kameng. Police officials stated that the Investigating Officer conducted a systematic and thorough probe by recording witness statements and establishing a strong chain of evidence.

Due to the swift pace of the investigation, the charge-sheet was filed within two weeks, on October 31, 2021.

After examining the evidence and testimonies presented during the trial, the Special Court (POCSO) at Seppa delivered its judgment on May 22, 2026, convicting Biram Dada in the case.

The court sentenced the convict to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹5,000. In default of payment of the fine, the convict will undergo an additional three months of imprisonment.

The conviction has been viewed as a significant outcome in the fight against crimes against children and highlights the importance of timely investigation and strong prosecution in securing justice under the POCSO Act.

Largest-Ever Drug Bust in Tawang: Two Held With Heroin Worth ₹3.4 Lakh

 

Tawang, May 22:

In a major crackdown on narcotics, the Anti-Drugs Squad (ADS) and Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) of Tawang Police carried out multiple raids across Tawang township on May 22, leading to the arrest of two alleged drug peddlers and the seizure of suspected heroin worth approximately ₹3.4 lakh.

Acting on credible intelligence received from reliable sources, the operation was led by DySP Tawang Shri Tasso Kato under the close supervision of Superintendent of Police Shri Tasi Darang. The coordinated raids were conducted by a police team comprising L/Insp. Niyi Angu, SI Lham Thinley, SI Kesang Phuntso, SI Jambey Chorten, Ct. Jambey Tsering, Ct. Geshi Monpa, Ct. Lham Norbu and Ct. (Driver) Tashi Phuntsok.

During the operation, the police apprehended two individuals identified as Tenzin Phuntso (27), a resident of Mandrelling, and Lobsang (27), a resident of Nehru Market area.

Police recovered a total of 68 vials containing suspected heroin weighing approximately 81.6 grams, including the weight of the vials. The seized contraband is estimated to be worth around ₹3.4 lakh in the illegal market.

The seizure process was conducted in the presence of Executive Magistrates AC Tenzin Jambey and AC Sangey Norbu, following due legal procedure. A case has been registered at Police Station Tawang under relevant sections of the law, and further investigation is underway.

According to police officials, this is the largest drug bust ever recorded in Tawang district, highlighting a growing concern over the rise of narcotics-related activities in the region.

Tawang Police reiterated its “Zero Tolerance” policy against narcotic drugs and related offences, stating that strict action will continue against individuals involved in the drug trade to ensure the safety and well-being of society.

Arunachal Launches Major Mission to Make Organic Kiwi a Global Brand

 

Itanagar, May 21:

The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has officially launched Mission “Arunachal Kiwi: The USP of Arunachal Pradesh”, a major convergence-driven initiative aimed at transforming the state’s kiwi sector into a globally competitive organic fruit ecosystem while empowering thousands of farmers across the state.

The mission seeks to strengthen the complete kiwi value chain, from cultivation and scientific farming practices to post-harvest management, branding, export promotion and agri-tourism development. The initiative is expected to significantly improve farmer income, market connectivity and international visibility for Arunachal Pradesh’s organic kiwi produce.

Speaking on the importance of the mission, the state government highlighted that the initiative has been inspired by the visionary leadership of Narendra Modi and is being guided by Jyotiraditya M. Scindia.

Arunachal Pradesh currently contributes more than 50 percent of India’s total kiwi production, making it the country’s leading kiwi-producing state. The fruit, known for its quality, taste and naturally organic cultivation methods, is primarily grown in districts such as Lower Subansiri, West Kameng, Shi Yomi and Dibang Valley.

Under the new mission, farmers are expected to benefit from improved infrastructure facilities, modern storage and packaging systems, stronger transportation networks, better market access and enhanced value realisation for their produce. The programme will also focus on branding “Arunachal Organic Kiwi” as a premium global product capable of competing in international markets.

Officials stated that the initiative will further encourage entrepreneurship, food processing, export-oriented agriculture and eco-based agri-tourism in kiwi-growing regions, creating additional livelihood opportunities for rural communities.

The government also acknowledged the support and collaboration of the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), partner institutions, entrepreneurs and farming communities whose collective efforts have helped shape the mission.

With the launch of this ambitious initiative, Arunachal Pradesh aims to position “Arunachal Organic Kiwi” as a globally recognised brand symbolising quality, sustainability and the resilience of the state’s farming communities.

Two Youths Rescue 12-Year-Old Boy from Flooded Subansiri River in Daporijo

 

Daporijo, May 21:

In a courageous act amid dangerous flood conditions, two youths identified as Kuki Hali and Baku Ropuk rescued a 12-year-old boy from drowning in the swollen Subansiri River at Daporijo in Upper Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday.

According to reports, the 12-year-old boy had reportedly gone near the riverbank to collect firewood when he was suddenly swept away by the strong current of the overflowing Subansiri River. The river has turned highly dangerous following continuous heavy rainfall in the region.

Upon noticing the boy struggling in the water, Kuki Hali and Baku Ropuk immediately rushed to the spot and risked their own lives to rescue him from the raging current. Their swift response successfully saved the child from a possible tragedy.

The Subansiri River has been overflowing since Wednesday night after intense rainfall, suspected to have been caused by a cloudburst in the upper catchment areas. The surging river carried massive logs, uprooted trees, and other debris downstream, while several fishes were also reportedly washed ashore due to the floodwaters.

Local residents have praised the bravery and presence of mind shown by the two youths, whose timely intervention prevented the loss of a young life amid the worsening flood situation.

Traffic Police Equipped With Body Cameras Amid Transparency Push

 

Seppa, May 21:

The Traffic Police Department has equipped all traffic personnel with Body Worn Cameras as part of a significant initiative aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and professionalism during duty hours.

The move comes amid ongoing public outrage and widespread discussions regarding the conduct of certain police personnel, traffic police officials, and staff posted at check gates, particularly over allegations of bribery and irregularities during enforcement and verification procedures.

Officials stated that the use of Body Worn Cameras will strengthen fair and transparent enforcement of traffic regulations while improving the overall traffic management system. The cameras are expected to support smoother regulation of vehicular movement, ensure lawful interactions between personnel and citizens, and provide real-time accountability during duty hours.

A few days earlier, DIGP Tumme Amo had announced that proper CCTV surveillance systems would be installed in necessary and sensitive locations, especially at check gate offices and areas outside the check gates where Inner Line Permit (ILP) verifications are conducted. According to the DIGP, the CCTV systems will include night vision capability and will be directly monitored by him along with the Superintendents of Police (SPs) of the respective jurisdictions.

He further stated that real-time Body Worn Cameras would be made mandatory for personnel deployed on sensitive duties to ensure transparency, discipline, and accountability in field operations.

Authorities believe the initiative will play a major role in strengthening public trust, improving road discipline, and modernizing policing standards across the state. The introduction of surveillance and monitoring systems is also expected to discourage misconduct and ensure that enforcement activities are carried out in a fair and professional manner.

Traffic authorities have urged all road users to cooperate with on-duty personnel and refrain from engaging in unruly behaviour during lawful enforcement actions. Officials emphasized that traffic laws and regulations are implemented for the safety and protection of all citizens, and strict compliance with these rules is essential in preventing accidents and saving lives.

ST Bachao Andolan Demands Inclusive Talks, Warns of Statewide Shutdown

ASTBAC Chairman Sol Dodum and General Secretary Millo Ambo.

Itanagar, May 22:

The ST Bachao Andolan Committee on Friday warned of launching a four-day statewide bandh across Arunachal Pradesh if the state government fails to respond within six days to its revised memorandum concerning issues related to the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system and other related concerns.

The warning came after members of the committee submitted a petition at the Chief Minister’s Office earlier in the day, demanding what they described as a transparent, inclusive, and broader consultative process on matters affecting the indigenous tribal communities of the state.

Addressing reporters, ST Bachao Andolan Chairman Sol Dodum said the movement has been receiving increasing public support following the recent 36-hour bandh called by the organisation. According to him, the online petition campaign initiated after the bandh has already gathered support from more than 4,700 people within just two days.

Dodum stated that the actual number of supporters could be significantly higher, as many people from rural areas and remote districts either do not use social media platforms like Facebook or were unable to participate in the online petition despite supporting the movement.

“For a movement to receive over 4,700 supporters in just two days itself reflects the growing concern and sentiment among the people,” he said.

The committee members also revealed that they had declined an earlier invitation from Home Minister Mama Natung for discussions. They alleged that they would not participate in closed-door meetings involving only selected representatives.

“We have clearly conveyed that discussions on sensitive matters related to the future of Arunachal Pradesh cannot happen behind closed doors. Even if the meeting is with the Chief Minister alone, we will not accept it,” Dodum stated.

The organisation demanded that any future dialogue must include representatives from all Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) across Arunachal Pradesh, along with legal experts, retired judicial members, academicians, and distinguished public figures to ensure fairness and transparency in the discussion process.

As part of their proposal, the committee has sought the presence of two senior advocates, a retired or serving judge, two PHD holders, two professors, one representative from each CBO of the state, and two representatives from the ST Bachao Andolan Committee during the discussions.

Dodum also reacted to recent remarks made by the Home Minister regarding deployment of security forces in view of the agitation. He said that attempts to intimidate or suppress the movement through security deployment would not deter the protesters.

“No amount of security deployment can silence the voice of the indigenous people if their genuine concerns are not addressed,” he asserted.

The organisation further reiterated its demand for what it termed a “permanent solution” to issues concerning illegal and undocumented Tibetan refugees, illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, and alleged non-Indian illegal Nepali settlers residing in Arunachal Pradesh while availing Scheduled Tribe (ST) benefits.

The committee maintained that these issues have serious implications for the demographic balance, constitutional safeguards, and rights of the indigenous tribal population of the state.

Meanwhile, the ST Bachao Andolan Committee warned that if the government fails to respond positively to their revised memorandum within the stipulated six-day period, the agitation would be intensified through a four-day bandh across Arunachal Pradesh.