ITANAGAR, Sep 16: In a bold and decisive effort to curb criminal intimidation, the Itanagar Police have launched a major crackdown on the notorious United Tani Army (UTA), arresting four individuals allegedly involved in extortion activities targeting citizens across Arunachal Pradesh.
Addressing the media at a press briefing, IGP (Law & Order) Chuku Apa and SP of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) Suvendu Bhushan confirmed that UTA has been sending extortion notices to residents in Itanagar, Pasighat, and Basar. Officials cautioned that more cases may surface as investigations proceed.
The arrested individuals  Biri Ruja, Hungsa Pansa, Tana Badang, and  Marli Ingo have been booked under cases registered at SIT Itanagar and Basar.
IGP Apa made it clear, “The State Police will not tolerate threats and criminal intimidation. We are fully committed to uprooting this network and ensuring the safety of every citizen.” He further asserted that the organization’s operations have been severely dented and vowed relentless action until it is completely dismantled.
Authorities revealed that earlier extortion letters, allegedly signed by UTA’s self-proclaimed ‘commando-in-chief’ Antony Doke, were sent to residents in multiple locations — two in Itanagar, one in Pasighat, and one in Basar, West Siang district.
SP Suvendu Bhushan elaborated on the investigations, stating, “In one case, the Nirjuli police were alerted about a ₹5 crore extortion notice served by the UTA. Considering the sensitivity of the matter, the case was transferred to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) for deeper investigation.”
He added, “Through human intelligence and surveillance, Biri Ruja was arrested from Banderdewa. Interrogation and examination of his mobile devices revealed extortion-related notes and communications with Antony Doke.” Subsequent interrogation led to the arrest of three more individuals — Tana Padang, Hungsa Pansa, and Marli Ingo — from different locations, including Basar, Itanagar, and Pasighat.
The police also recovered evidence indicating cross-border movement and insurgency-related training linked to the UTA’s activities.
“Further investigation is underway to map the network, and more arrests are expected,” Bhushan confirmed.
IGP Apa also informed that alongside arrests, the police have initiated efforts to encourage cadres to surrender. He said that Antony Doke and his close aides are believed to be operating from Myanmar. He appealed to the public not to panic and urged them to report any extortion threats immediately without fear or prejudice.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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