In a major breakthrough on the eve of Independence Day, North Tripura police arrested two suspected members of Tripura United National Front (TUNF), a newly formed militant outfit, and seized a cache of explosives and other dangerous materials.

Acting on a tip-off, personnel from Vangmun Police Station and security forces conducted a joint search operation at the Vangmun Naka Gate area on Thursday night. 

The raid led to the arrest of Dhananjay Reang (39) of Hailakandi, Assam, and Sadai Nanda Reang (34) of Kashkaopara under Damcherra Police Station.

During the operation, police recovered electric detonators, explosive bars, sharp knives, TUNF letterheads and pads, a suspicious diary, a torch, and other dangerous tools. 
Preliminary investigation suggests the duo was planning to trigger unrest and carry out sabotage in Kanchanpur in North Tripura district during the Independence Day celebrations.

According to police sources, both suspects had been under surveillance for a considerable time. Once the intelligence was confirmed, a special checkpoint was set up at Vangmun Naka Gate, leading to the arrests.

North Tripura Superintendent of Police Avinash Rai stated, “We are on the high alert to prevent any sabotage ahead of August 15. The items recovered are extremely dangerous and capable of causing significant harm. We are investigating whether they were part of a larger conspiracy.”

Both accused are currently being interrogated intensively, while security and surveillance have been tightened across other districts. 
Additional checkpoints and patrols have also been deployed in border areas to ensure law and order remains intact during the celebrations.