Imphal, April 15 (NationPress) The government of Manipur has called on citizens to avoid disseminating false information that may exacerbate the already precarious situation in the region.

Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified reports and asked for collaboration in restoring peace in the areas affected by violence.

This appeal follows a troubling incident on Tuesday, where at least 18 civilians, including five women, were injured, and a mob set fire to two vehicles belonging to security forces in Bishnupur district.

The unrest began after authorities confiscated a significant amount of drugs from a suspected dealer at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal. Singh noted that tensions in Bishnupur district have been high since Tuesday due to this incident, further fueling unrest.

According to the minister, a joint operation involving the Central Industrial Security Force, Assam Rifles, and local forces led to the arrest of a suspected drug dealer named Mohammad Sabir Ahamed at the airport.

Upon inspecting Ahamed's checked baggage, officials discovered approximately 6.74 kg of suspected brown sugar hidden within six containers.

During questioning, Ahamed, who resides in the Moirang sub-division of Bishnupur district, allegedly revealed that he had more drugs and weapons stored in Kwakta village in the same district. Following this information, personnel from the Assam Rifles, disguised in civilian clothing, accompanied him to the location.

However, en route to Bishnupur district, a disturbing incident occurred when local women, conducting vehicle inspections, halted their team. A misunderstanding ensued, leading to suspicions that members of a specific community were inside the vehicle, resulting in public confusion and unrest.

Singh explained that this miscommunication quickly escalated into violence, with a mob attacking the team, causing injuries to multiple individuals. In the ensuing chaos, one of the vehicles was set ablaze, further aggravating the situation.

Security forces, including personnel from the Assam Rifles and Manipur Rifles commandos, swiftly arrived at the scene to conduct rescue operations. Several individuals were safely evacuated, with local volunteers and community groups aiding in restoring order.

The minister stated that state security forces, along with central forces and the Army, have been deployed to the area. Ongoing combined operations aim to restore stability and prevent further disturbances.

Singh also mentioned that the incident on Tuesday involved armed elements, raising grave concerns about safety and law enforcement in the region. Authorities are actively working to identify those responsible and ensure prompt action.

In his appeal for calm, the Home Minister requested citizens to avoid spreading panic or misinformation and to cooperate with law enforcement.

He also indicated that the relevant authorities, including the Members of the Legislative Assembly from Moirang and Kumbi constituencies, have been informed, and appropriate measures are being implemented.

A meeting with Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh is also in the works to discuss the situation, according to Singh.

Three Members of the Legislative Assembly—Thounaojam Basanta Kumar, Irengbam Nalini Devi, and Tongbram Robindro—were present at the Home Minister's press briefing.