The Assam Rifles, Mokokchung Battalion, on Friday arrested five persons, including four NSCN-IM cadres, for performing illegal vehicle checking and extortion at General Area Sutsu Junction, Mokokchung district, Nagaland.

According to sources, on receiving reports of suspected extortion, the Assam Rifles launched an operation in the area. On arriving at the mentioned spot, the troops came across an illegal Vehicle Check Point and found five persons checking vehicles.

When questioned, it was confirmed that four individuals were active cadres of NSCN-IM and one was identified as an ex-employee of SBI Mokokchung. All were carrying out extortion activities, sources added.

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Those apprehended have been identified as SS Leacy Moanungten Ao, SS Kabuer Tia Dianochet, SS Razapeau Sentimeren, SS Leacy Mia Lipa and one Konangimba Lemtur.

Along with the two vehicles used for the illegal activities, the troops of Mokokchung Battalion also recovered an abandoned black car and an Apache motorcycle from the area. None of the vehicles had documents justifying ownership.

Cash of ₹12,231 and two bottles of IMFL (quarter) were also found in the search.

First Information Report (FIR) was lodged at Mokokchung Police Station-II.