Kohima, June 18: Heavy exchange of fire took place out between rival factions of the NSCN at Pomcmei colony of Tizit in Nagaland's Non Di Mon district last evening, leading to tension in the area. Tizit police told news persons today that clashes erupted between the two rival factions of the NSCN last evening and continued till this morning, forcing residents to flee to other areas of the town.

Although there has been no report of casualties, police recovered about 15-20 empty cases of AK 47 cartridges from the area. Police reached the spot this morning and brought the situation under control, sources said, adding that militants of both the factions fled to the jungles as soon as the police team reached the spot.

Patrolling was intensified in the area by personnel of the sixth Nagaland armed police, the district executive force besides the personnel of Tizit police station, police said adding that one company of the Indian reserve battalion was deployed in the area to bring the situation under control. Meanwhile, Mon district superintendent of police has requested the residents of Pomcmei area to return to their homes and assured them of all possible help, sources added.

Bureau Report