In a development seen as a positive step towards peace in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tirap district, an underground cadre of the NSCN-K (Khango Konyak faction) surrendered before security forces on February 10, officials said. The surrender is being viewed by authorities as part of the continuing efforts to encourage militants to return to the mainstream and support long-term stability in the region.
According to official sources, the surrendered cadre has been identified as SS Lieutenant Wangkhu Lowang, aged 32. He is the son of Wangdiap Lowang and a resident of Moktowa village under Dadam police station in Tirap district. The surrender took place at Khonsa in the presence of officers from Tirap Police, the 44th Assam Rifles, and the 36th Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
Security officials stated that during the surrender, the cadre handed over a 7.65 mm pistol, reportedly made in Kachin, bearing registration number 4702. Along with the weapon, he also submitted one magazine and six rounds of live 7.65 mm ammunition. Officials confirmed that the surrendered arms and ammunition were taken into official custody as per standard procedures.
Authorities said that such surrenders reflect the steady efforts made by security agencies over the years to convince underground members to leave the path of violence and return to normal civilian life. Officers involved in the process explained that awareness programmes, community outreach, and sustained dialogue with local residents have helped create an environment where more militants are willing to surrender and rebuild their lives peacefully.
Local police officials noted that Tirap district, which had faced insurgency-related challenges in the past, has been witnessing gradual improvement in the security situation. They said every surrender plays an important role in strengthening trust between the administration and local communities. Officials added that when individuals come forward voluntarily, it also sends a message to others still involved in underground activities that peaceful reintegration is possible.
Security agencies further said that surrendered cadres are provided opportunities for rehabilitation under government policies aimed at helping them return to society. These measures include counselling, skill development support, and assistance for starting a normal livelihood, which officials believe helps prevent them from going back to underground activities.
