Shillong: Few rumour mongers were spreading stories on social media regarding the reformation of proscribed Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA)—this news rattled the state police force who finally managed to get hold of the rumour mongers on Sunday.

Police sources said that a fake message was spread on Whatsapp announcing that GNLA has been regrouped under the leadership of Jingjang D. Shira and all the prospective cadres are undergoing training in East Garo Hills and South Garo Hills. Police immediately started tracking these elements and undoubtedly their hard work has paid off.

After interrogation, the police searched the residence of Namchang Ch Momin, also known as Jingjang D Shira, where they seized various incriminating materials such as camouflage uniforms and boots.

22-year-old Namchang Ch Momin aka Jingjang D Shira hailing from Darangagre, 26-year-old Adot M Sangma from Ganipara and 26-year-old Silwit R Marak from Nalnapara were arrested by the police in connection with the viral social media message. All three hail from villages under Dalu PS in West Garo Hills.

It was confirmed during interrogation that there was no revival of the defunct GNLA and that the three arrested individuals allegedly spread the viral message to instil fear and extort money from businessmen. The police said that further investigation is underway to nab others involved in the case, if any.

Meanwhile, requesting public support regarding information about incidents of insurgency, the police said, “We will act on all such information and suitably reward the person giving information without disclosing his/her identity.”