Morung Express
November 28
KOHIMA: The massive manhunt conducted by the police, state’s intelligence agencies and security forces into the shooting of a senior Nagaland post journalist, Xavier Rutsa on November 24 have reportedly bore results following the identification and detention of two NSCN (IM) cadres.
Sources said that ‘Capt.’ Chuanga and ‘Lt.’ Yanger who were involved in the incident had been kept in the custody of the NSCN (IM) and deported to its Council Headquarters at Camp Hebron at Munglamukh, soon after the incident.
However, the sources say that NSCN-IM has admitted that the shooting of Rutsa was not pre-meditated and that the erring cadres had shot at him under the influence of alcohol.
However, none of the top NSCN (IM) leaders were available for comments. Sources further added that the incident has ruffled the organization and expressing displeasure over the incident involving two of its cadres.
It may be mentioned here that both the NSCN factions had, in separate statements, denied their involvement in the incident. The NSCN (K) while denying its hand in the shoot-out had blamed the NSCN (IM) pointing out that the premises of new NST, Kohima where the incident occurred was a strong hold of the rival faction. The NSCN (IM) had however denied this allegation yesterday. The identification of the culprits is expected to produce a new twist to the incident.
Meanwhile, police have also hinted that they have identified the would-be-killers and that they may ask the culprits to surrender themselves.
It may be mentioned here that the attempt on the life of a respected senior journalist had sent shockwaves throughout the state and outside and that there was much public outcry and outrage against the attack on a member of the Fourth Estate.
Meanwhile, the victim, Xavier Rutsa, is making steady progress at Oking Hospital where he is recuperating.
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