Rebel "tax collector" nabbed

Aizawl, Mar 15 (UNI) A suspected Bru Liberation Front of Mizoram (BLFM) cadre was arrested by Kanhmun police with a receipt book for taxes near Mizoram-Tripura border in Mamit district on Saturday, a delayed report said.

The arrested activist, identified as SS corporal Missiona, 21, hailing from Khakchangpara in Tripura, was later handed over to Mamit police.

According to Mamit district Superintendent of Police Neihchungnunga, the BLFM has regularly been collecting taxes in the border villages with the letter head of 'Revenue&Tax department, government of Bru Liberation Front of Mizoram'.

''However, the villagers are becoming bold enough to defy the outfit's demand as we keep on encouraging them not to succumb to the militants' threats,'' he added.

In the most recent incident, the BLFM on the said letter head demanded Rs 50,00 each from some residents of Kanhmun on March 7.

The letters contained a warning of dire consequences for those who fail to pay the money.

UNI SNR BA YA VC1138