National Security Guard spearheads counter terrorism drill in Nagaland

DIMAPUR — In a first of its kind in the state, a comprehensive two-day mock counter terrorism exercise was successfully conducted on September 23 and the 24th, spearheaded by the National Security Guard (NSG), to test and strengthen the coordinated response of multiple agencies in the event of a crisis.

The exercise simulated a terrorist attack leading to a hostage situation, with scenarios unfolding at four different key locations, Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, Aotula T Imchen stated in a press release.

A workshop on CT-Urban Operation was also conducted by NSG and Dimapur Police on Thursday at Police Complex Chümoukedima for professional capacity building.

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The mock terrorist attacks were initiated on September 23 at St. Joseph University and Niathu Resort under Chümoukedima district. The drill continued on September 24 at the BSNL Exchange, Dimapur, and NIT Chümoukedima.

The exercise began with a swift response from the primary first responders — the Dimapur Police Commissionerate and the district administration. Their initial actions were supported by a wide range of other stakeholders who played crucial roles in the coordinated effort.

The stakeholders included the Fire and Emergency Services, medical teams from District Hospital Dimapur and Police Referral Hospital Chümoukedima, FSL, Traffic Police, IRB, NAP rangers, Assam Rifles and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).

The culmination of the exercise involved a simulated hostage rescue and neutralisation of the armed terrorists by highly-trained National Security Guard (NSG) commandos.

“This mock drill served as a critical platform for various agencies to practice an inter-agency coordinated and synergised response. It highlighted the importance of seamless communication and collaboration to effectively manage and neutralize a terrorist threat.

“The successful completion of this drill underscores the commitment of all participating agencies to remain prepared and equipped to face and respond to such complex crisis situations,” the release stated.

The workshop on urban operations also further enhanced our capabilities in tackling close quarter combat scenarios involving terrorists/criminals in urban settings.

Meanwhile, the Dimapur Police Commissionerate extended deep appreciation to the NSG for their exemplary and professional work, to all stakeholders and other participants who took part in the exercise, and the public in general for extending co-operation during the mock exercise.