
Shillong, March 22: An abductor died in police action and three others of the criminal gang were arrested after an exchange of fire leading to the rescue of a cattle trader on March 21.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Superintendent of Police, West Garo Hills, Abraham T Sangma said that on March 20, the Officer In-Charge, Damal A-sim Police Station received a written FIR from Rasik Hussain, a resident of Bangalkata, Phulbari, West Garo Hills District reporting the abduction of his father, Ruvi Hussain, along with Nazimuddin Sheik, on March 19 afternoon by three individuals carrying arms and a dagger while the former were transporting cattle from the area.
Howevera, Nazimuddin Sheik escaped and he along with the son of the victim informed the police about the incident.
The incident occurred near Dananggre Songma reserve forest.
In response, a team of West Garo Hills District Police and SF-10 Commandos along with the teams of Dadenggre and Damal Asim Police Station initiated a rescue and search operation. The team located the hideout of the perpetrators at Dipogre Asim Chiring under Damal Asim Police Station.
“During the wee hours on March 21, upon arrival, the miscreants opened fire on the police team, leading to an exchange of fire in self-defence.Subsequently, two injured kidnappers were apprehended, while Ruvi Hussain was safely rescued. The victim and the injured kidnappers were provided with medical attention at Dadenggre PHC.Unfortunately, one of the injured kidnappers, Raksan M Marak, succumbed to his injuries while being transported from Dadenggre PHC to Tura Civil Hospital”, the police said. During the search and rescue operation, the police. recovered incriminating evidence including a country-made shotgun, a small puma bag, and a knife. Another kidnapper, identified as Chingsan M. Marak, was also arrested.

One of the abductors was Sengchuang Sangma @ Miksong, a former ASAK militant who was out on bail from Tura jail on March 4.

Commitment
The West Garo Hills District police said it remains committed to ensuring the
safety and security of all residents.
“We urge the public to stay vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activities, movement of unknown persons, or unlawful gatherings to the nearest police station or contact police control room, Tura at 8837423053.
Caution while moving
Another advisory to the general public,
businessmen/traders and transporters is to exercise caution while moving around interior
places,avoid isolated routes,and seek police assistance if needed.
“Cooperation from the community is essential in maintaining law and order,and we request all citizens to support the district police in ensuring a safe and secure environment for everyone”, the police added.