Imphal, Jan 10 (NationPress) Just two days following a bomb explosion at a petrol station in the Bishnupur district of Manipur, all fuel stations within the Manipur Valley and nearby areas have been closed indefinitely as of Saturday. This closure was initiated by the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF), who are demanding improved security measures for fuel outlets and their personnel.

In a communication directed to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the MPDF expressed concerns that, despite the government’s assurances, petrol station owners and employees are still facing substantial security risks, particularly after the January 8 bomb blast. The MPDF highlighted that this incident marks the second such dangerous attack in a short timeframe, following a similar incident on December 6 of the previous year.

Due to these alarming occurrences, the MPDF has stated that they cannot resume normal operations unless their three key demands are fulfilled. These demands include enhanced security measures at fuel stations to avert further attacks, full accountability from the government in instances of bomb blasts or kidnappings, along with compensation for any damage incurred and adequate monetary support if any dealer or staff member is injured or killed.

The MPDF has also requested compensation for the damage inflicted on the Bishnupur fuel station during last Thursday's explosion.

Law enforcement agencies reported that masked assailants on a motorcycle threw a bomb near the Moirang Thana Leikai fuel station, causing an explosion. Fortunately, there were no injuries, but the blast did result in damage to the facility.

Authorities have initiated an investigation and a search operation, with CCTV footage from the vicinity currently under review.

As of now, no suspects have been apprehended. In response to the incident, petrol station staff and local residents conducted a sit-in protest at the location.

Last month, fuel station operators in Manipur had also threatened to halt operations due to extortion attempts, which included a hand grenade being discovered in a fuel station restroom in Koirengei, Imphal East district, on December 6.

This explosive device was reportedly accompanied by a letter issuing threats of severe repercussions if certain demands were not met.

On December 22, the MPDF claimed that no action had been taken despite presenting a memorandum to the Governor concerning persistent bomb threats, extortion efforts, and financial demands.

Meanwhile, Manipur Police have reported that they are strengthening anti-extortion strategies statewide.

Senior police officials previously met with MPDF representatives and agreed to evaluate the current security protocols at fuel retail outlets.

Additional initiatives include the deployment of mobile police units at key locations and thorough vetting of all personnel working at fuel outlets.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N. Ashok Kumar stated that an Integrated Anti-Extortion Cell was established on January 26 of the previous year under the Home Department. This cell consists of members from the Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces, Assam Rifles, and the Indian Army to combat extortion activities.

A 24/7 toll-free helpline has been set up for the public to report any extortion threats via calls, messages, or letters.

Kumar has encouraged citizens, including government employees, to report such incidents promptly and cooperate with the authorities.

In a related update, security forces conducted joint operations leading to the arrest of three militants from Imphal West and Imphal East districts, recovering locally manufactured weapons and ammunition in Churachandpur, Imphal East, and Thoubal districts.

The detained individuals, affiliated with groups such as the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF), Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), and People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), were reportedly involved in the coercive collection of funds. Authorities also seized electronic devices, Aadhaar cards, and a Maruti Alto vehicle from their possession.