Arunachal: Police identify suspects in ex-MLA Yumsen Matey's murder

Guwahati: Arunachal Pradesh Home Minister Bamang Felix announced a significant development in the murder case of former MLA Yumsen Matey.

He said that the police have identified the individuals suspected to be behind the killing.

Matey, who represented the Khonsa West seat, was shot dead on December 17, 2023, during a visit to Raho village in Tirap district.

The incident occurred near the Myanmar border, leading to speculation that militant groups active in the region might be involved.

Initial investigations by the Arunachal Pradesh police suggested a planned attack. Under the guise of a private conversation, an individual approached Matey, shortly followed by a gunshot. Matey's associates found him deceased, while the assailant reportedly fled towards Myanmar.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu, condemning the heinous crime, ordered swift action against the perpetrators. To ensure a comprehensive investigation, the case was transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on December 22, 2023.

Matey, a former Congress MLA and Parliamentary Secretary had expressed his intention to contest in the upcoming 2024 assembly polls. His untimely demise through this violent act cut short a notable political career.