NSCN (K) refutes ED allegations in PMLA case

DIMAPUR — Days after a Special PMLA Court in Imphal East issued a proclamation against “Nikki Sumi, self-styled Lt. General of NSCN (K),” declaring him an absconder in a money laundering case, the NSCN/GPRN (Nikki) has issued a rebuttal, calling the move “propaganda” by Indian agencies.

In a statement issued by the group’s Ministry of Information and Publicity (MIP), the NSCN/GPRN claimed that the case in question relates to an incident in 2017, when personnel from the 34 Assam Rifles intercepted and seized a sum of money at a mobile vehicle checkpoint near Karong in Manipur. The money, it said, was intended for the celebration of a 25th marriage anniversary event at Taga, Myanmar.

Also read: Court declares Niki Sumi ‘absconder’ in money laundering case

It stated that the case was subsequently forwarded to the Manipur Police, and a legal case was filed in the court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Senapati. “All relevant documents regarding the source of the seized money were produced in the court, and after due judicial processes, the court passed the judgement dated 09/05/2017 on Cril. Misc. (Zima) case no. 10 of 2017 Ref. FIR NO. 8(4) SPT P.S. U/S 17UA (P) Act, disposed in favour of the accused, and the seized money was returned,” it said.

The group maintained that its president, “Nikki Sumi, was never at any point in time arrested with possession of money,” and questioned what other money laundering case was now being linked to him.

The NSCN/GPRN also criticised the Government of India (GoI) for allegedly using investigative agencies to “undermine Naga political rights” and “character-assassinate Naga leaders,” instead of resolving the Indo-Naga political issue. It accused the Centre of harassing family members to spread lies and propaganda.

“GoI should never have invited NSCN/GPRN for the peace process if its intent was to totally undermine Naga political rights by using pressure tactics,” the statement said, adding that such actions would not sabotage Naga political rights, which it asserted, is based on “strong historical foundations.”

The ED’s case, as reported, is being pursued under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and includes four other co-accused, including Sumi’s wife. The next hearing has been scheduled for August 8.