Two suspected extortion operatives allegedly linked to United Liberation Front of Asom were injured during an exchange of fire with police at Bogidol Mola village in Sivasagar district on May 25, police sources said.
According to reports, a group had allegedly been demanding money in the name of ULFA from local businessmen for several days. The latest target was businessman Lachit Gogoi, who reportedly received an extortion demand of Rs 8 lakh.
Police sources said the suspected group arrived near Mola gaon on Sunday to collect the extortion money, where a police team was already conducting an operation. On noticing the police presence, the alleged extortion operatives reportedly opened fire, leading to retaliatory firing by the police.
During the exchange of fire, one suspected operative identified as Ritu Gogoi sustained multiple bullet injuries. Reports said he was hit by four bullets in the thigh area and another near the waist, leaving him critically injured.
Another injured person, identified as Jitu Gogoi and reportedly a relative of Ritu Gogoi, suffered a bullet graze injury to his abdomen.
Officials said the suspected extortion group consisted of six members, while four others managed to escape from the spot. Security forces have launched a search operation to trace the absconding individuals.
Critically injured Ritu Gogoi was shifted to Dibrugarh Medical College and Hospital for advanced medical treatment, while Jitu Gogoi is currently undergoing treatment at Sivasagar Civil Hospital.
Police also recovered two motorcycles and a firearm from the encounter site.
Sources further stated that the same group had allegedly issued a similar extortion demand to businessman Lachit Gogoi nearly 15 days ago. Police had earlier attempted to apprehend the suspects, but the operation was unsuccessful at that time.
Investigation into the case is currently underway.