Tirong Aboh
File image of MLA Tirong Aboh. Image: Northeast Now

11 persons including NPP candidate and sitting MLA of 56 Khonsa West Tirong Aboh and his minor son were shot dead on Tuesday morning by suspected NCSN (IM) militants at Bogapani area in Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Police said that 56-year-old Aboh and others were travelling in a convoy of four SUVs when armed militants stopped their vehicles at 12 Mile, 20 kms away from Khonsa, and fired upon them.

Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge!

While the police confirmed the death of Aboh and his youngest son Tirong Aboh, the others killed were identified as their relatives including  Wangngoi Hakhun,  Jalin Hakhun, Ganwang Hakhun, Matlam Aboh,  Pangro (teacher).

Two of the PSOs of Aboh—Ponhang Agi and B Siksa–have also been killed in the attack.

Police said that two other victims are yet to be identified. Two other PSOs travelling with Aboh identified as Wangsan Hakhun and Wangdan Hakhun received bullet injuries while one woman and one PSO escaped unhurt.

Ready for a challenge? Click here to take our quiz and show off your knowledge!

Tirong Aboh was contesting the assembly elections this year as a National People’s Party (NPP) candidate.

Earlier, NSCN (IM) allegedly threatened him for campaign for the NPP.

According to reports, suspected NSCN (IM) militants could be behind the attack, which took place at Bogapani village of the district at 11.30 am.

One of those killed in the attack. Image credit – Northeast Now
One of those killed in the attack. Image credit – Northeast Now

Meghalaya chief minister and NPP president  Conrad K Sangma has strongly condemned the incident.

“The NPP is extremely shocked and saddened by the news of the death of its MLA Shri Tirong Aboh (Arunachal Pradesh) and his family. We condemn the brutal attack and urge @rajnathsingh and @PMOIndia to take action against those responsible for such attack,” Sangma said in a tweet.

Union minister of state for home affairs Kiren Rijiju said he was “shocked and saddened by the brutal attack and tragic killing of MLA Shri Tirong Aboh of Arunachal Pradesh, his family including 11 people. Strongest possible action will be taken against those responsible for such dastardly attack.”