Wanted Manipur PLA militant captured in Goa after two decades on the run

Imphal: A senior member of the banned People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has been apprehended in Goa after evading authorities for nearly 20 years. Identified as Nongthongbam Ingo, the fugitive was taken into custody by the Goa Crime Branch in Margao on Friday, June 19. Police describe Ingo as a self-styled lieutenant colonel of the insurgent outfit.

Ingo was wanted in connection with a case filed under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act at the Lilong Police Station in the Thoubal district of Manipur. Officials tracked him to the coastal state shortly after his arrival on June 16. A senior police officer said, "Following his arrest, the militant leader was formally handed over to Manipur Police for further investigation and legal proceedings."

The breakthrough in the two-decade search came earlier this month when Manipur Police arrested two other insurgents linked to an alleged extortion racket. During their interrogation, the pair provided critical information regarding Ingo’s location. He has now been transferred to the custody of Manipur officials to face ongoing legal action.