In a major blow to the insurgent infrastructure in Meghalaya, a high-ranking “Area Commander” of the proscribed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) surrendered to authorities on Thursday. The operative, who oversaw the group’s activities in the West Khasi Hills, turned himself in before the Superintendent of Police in Mairang, Eastern West Khasi Hills District.
Following his initial surrender, the militant was escorted to the office of the Director General of Police (DGP) in Shillong for a high-level briefing. While the state police have remained tight-lipped regarding the specific terms of the surrender, the move is being viewed as a significant tactical win for counter-insurgency efforts.
Police sources indicate that the surrendered commander has already provided “actionable information” regarding HNLC operations. Officials suggest this development could have wider implications for the group’s remaining network in the Khasi Hills region. The Meghalaya police have declined to release the identity of the individual, citing the sensitivity of ongoing follow-up operations.