Guwahati, Apr 30: Three militants of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) were killed in an encounter with Assam Rifles and Assam Police in Dima Hasao district on Tuesday. The security forces also recovered three AK-series rifles and two pistols from the deceased militants.

Rajib Saikia, CPRO of Assam Police, confirmed that the operation was initiated following intelligence reports about militants involved in extortion activities against NHAI, who were hiding in the region around Hera Kilo and nearby villages under Haflong Police Station. The search operation began on Saturday evening.

After 60 hours of searching, security forces encountered the militants between N Kubin and Hera Kilo. The militants opened fire, prompting a heavy exchange of gunfire. Three militants were killed in the operation. Authorities suspect that the militants belonged to a faction of NSCN.

In an unrelated operation on Tuesday, Assam Police seized 20,000 Yaba tablets and 114 grams of heroin worth Rs 6.7 crore in Cachar district. Two drug peddlers were arrested during the operation, based on reliable intelligence. The police intercepted a vehicle near Silchar Bye Pass area during the raid.