Associated News Bureau

Thai Arms Smuggler Gets 6-Year Jail Term in NSCN-IM Arms Case

NEW DELHI, OCTOBER 8: A Special NIA Court in New Delhi has sentenced Thai national and arms smuggler Willy Naruenartwanich to six years in prison and imposed a fine of ₹5 lakh in an international arms procurement conspiracy case involving the NSCN (IM). The Special Exclusive Court-03 for NIA Cases at Rouse Avenue District Courts pronounced the sentence on Wednesday. Naruenartwanich had been convicted on September 24, 2026, under Sections 120B and 122 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The case concerns an alleged conspiracy to procure a large consignment of arms and ammunition from foreign sources for the NSCN (IM). According to the NIA, the procurement was intended to strengthen the outfit’s armed cadres and facilitate terrorist activities, besides constituting preparatory acts for waging war against the Government of India. The NIA registered the case on January 13, 2010, following an order from the Ministry of Home Affairs. The investigation identified Naruenartwanich, a Bangkok-based businessman, as an intermediary in the alleged procurement network. He reportedly coordinated with Anthony Shimray, described by the NIA as the NSCN (IM)’s chief arms procurer, and facilitated negotiations with representatives of a Chinese arms and ammunition company. The proposed procurement and transshipment arrangement was valued at approximately US$1.2 million, according to the investigation. The conviction and sentencing mark a significant development in the long-running case concerning the alleged international procurement network of the NSCN (IM).