Two construction officials rescued after overnight tension in South Tripura; kidnapping allegedly linked to tender dispute

After a night of intense tension and a massive search operation, two abducted construction workers were rescued early Sunday morning from the Baikhora area in South Tripura district.

According to sources, the sensational abduction was allegedly triggered by a dispute over a tender. It has been alleged that with the backing of a contractor group based in Baikhora, two employees of Quippon Oil and Gas Infrastructure Limited, working under the state-owned company Oil India Limited, were forcibly taken away late Saturday night from their camp at Ailmara in Silacherri area under Gomati district.

The incident created widespread panic in the area. Upon receiving the information, the police administration sprang into action and launched a large-scale search operation.

The extensive search, led by Superintendent of Police (Gomati) Dr. Kiran Kumar K, resulted in the successful rescue of both officials of Quippo Oil and Gas Infrastructure Limited (QOGIL), a firm engaged in project execution under Indian Oil.

Naka checking was conducted along possible routes, suspected individuals were questioned, and surveillance across the region was intensified. The tense operation continued throughout the night.

Sensing mounting pressure from the police, the miscreants eventually abandoned the two abducted workers near the Baikhora Naka point and fled the scene. Acting on local inputs early Sunday morning, police swiftly reached the spot, rescued the two workers, and brought them to Silacherri police station.

Speaking to Northeast Herald, SP Kiran Kumar confirmed that both abducted officials were rescued during the operation. “A massive search operation was carried out immediately after the incident. Both officials have been rescued safely. Investigation is underway to identify and arrest the miscreants involved,” he said.

Both rescued workers are reported to be in stable condition. Police have initiated a detailed investigation into the incident. Authorities are examining whether the tender-related dispute was indeed the primary motive behind the abduction and are making efforts to identify and arrest those involved.

While the incident has raised questions over security arrangements, informed sources believe that prompt administrative action helped avert a potentially serious situation. The episode has triggered widespread concern across South Tripura district.