Nagaland Civilian Deaths "Regretted": Army Assures Probe At Highest Level

The Army today expressed deep regrets over the "unfortunate loss of lives" in a security operation that went awry at Oting village in Mon district of Nagaland near Assam border, adding that the matter will be investigated at the "highest level". Sources say 13 civilians were killed in the incident. A jawan was also killed in the operation, the Army confirmed.

Acting on a tip off on likely movement of insurgents, the Army had planned an ambush on the Tiru-Oting road, but it went disastrously off script.  

"The incident and its aftermath is deeply regretted. The cause of the unfortunate loss of lives is being investigated at the highest level and appropriate action will be taken as per the course of law," the Army said in a statement.

"The security forces have suffered severe injuries in the incident including one soldier who succumbed to the injuries," it added.

The Mon area is the stronghold of Naga group NSCN(K) and even ULFA and the incident comes during the state's signature "Hornbill festival".

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio condoled the loss of lives and appealed for calm, adding a special investigating team will probe the matter.

"The unfortunate incident leading to killing of civilians at Oting, Mon is highly condemnable. Condolences to the bereaved families & speedy recovery of those injured. High level SIT will investigate & justice delivered as per the law of the land. Appeal for peace from all sections," tweeted Chief Minister Rio.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted: "Anguished over an unfortunate incident in Nagaland's Oting, Mon. I express my deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives. A high-level SIT constituted by the State govt will thoroughly probe this incident to ensure justice to the bereaved families."