Guwahati: In a proactive move to ensure safety ahead of Republic Day, Assam Police have begun removing abandoned vehicles from high-risk areas across the state.
This action comes as a precautionary measure following last year’s Independence Day incident, when explosives were found in unclaimed vehicles by the banned group.
For the past several days, police forces have been clearing vehicles left unattended in areas considered vulnerable to potential security threats.
In addition, sniffer dogs are being deployed to conduct thorough checks for explosives, aimed at preventing any possible attacks and minimizing spaces where bombs could be hidden.
During the 2024 Independence Day, ULFA-I claimed responsibility for planting explosives at 24 locations in Assam.
Fortunately, most of the devices failed to detonate due to technical malfunctions. However, security forces later recovered 11 IED-like objects, many of which were discovered in abandoned vehicles.
Following this, a joint operation by Assam Police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) resulted in the arrest of 15 individuals, including three women, who were allegedly involved in the bombing plot.
As Republic Day approaches, authorities in districts like Sivasagar and Tinsukia are intensifying their efforts to secure public spaces by removing abandoned vehicles and conducting additional security checks.
The primary goal is to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure the smooth conduct of Republic Day celebrations.
In Golaghat district, preparations are also underway for a peaceful 76th Republic Day celebration, with heightened security measures in place.
