Have three militants, including a petrol pump bomb blast suspect, been arrested in Manipur?
Synopsis
In a recent crackdown, security forces in Manipur have arrested three militants linked to a bomb blast at a petrol station, including a member of a banned group. This incident has raised serious concerns about security for fuel outlets in the region. The arrests come amid calls from the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity for enhanced protection against such attacks.
Key Takeaways
Three militants arrested in connection with a petrol pump explosion.
Security concerns raised by the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity.
Call for enhanced safety measures at petrol stations.
Weapons recovered during a separate operation in Imphal West.
Community demands government accountability for security threats.
Imphal, Jan 13 (NationPress) – In a significant operation, security forces have apprehended three hardened militants, including a member of a banned organization, for their suspected role in a bomb blast at a fuel station in Bishnupur district of Manipur, officials reported on Tuesday.
A police spokesperson revealed that the trio is affiliated with the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) and the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK).
The arrests took place in the districts of Imphal West and Kakching within the last 24 hours.
Among the arrested individuals, the KYKL member, identified as Hijam Manichandra Singh (35), is accused of orchestrating the explosion at the petrol pump in Moirang Thana Leikai in Bishnupur on January 8.
Post-arrest, the police have identified other accomplices involved in the incident and are actively pursuing their capture.
As per police reports, militants on a motorcycle launched a bomb at the fuel station on January 8, resulting in an explosion.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported; however, the explosion inflicted damage on the petrol station.
In response to two consecutive attacks – one on January 8 in Bishnupur and another on December 6 in Imphal East – all petrol pumps across the Manipur Valley and surrounding regions were closed on January 10.
This shutdown was initiated by the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF), which is advocating for enhanced security for fuel outlets and their personnel.
The MPDF communicated with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, expressing concerns that despite previous assurances from the authorities, petrol station owners and employees continue to face grave security risks, especially following the January 8 blast.
They noted that the January 8 incident marked the second serious attack in a short timeframe, following a similar bombing on December 6 last year.
The fraternity's requests include increased security measures at petrol stations to avert future assaults, government accountability regarding incidents like bomb blasts or kidnappings, compensation for infrastructural damages, and adequate monetary support in the event that any dealer or staff member is harmed or killed.
The MPDF has also requested compensation for damages incurred at the Bishnupur petrol station due to the January 8 explosion.
In a separate operation conducted over the past 24 hours, security forces recovered a cache of arms and ammunition in Imphal West.
The recovered weapons included one Self-Loading Rifle (SLR) with two magazines, two single-barrel guns, and three pistols along with three magazines.
The seizure also included 20 rounds of 7.62 mm SLR ammunition and eight tube launchers.
Point of View
It's crucial to emphasize the ongoing security challenges faced by regions like Manipur. The recent arrests highlight the persistent threat posed by militant groups, necessitating a robust response from both local and national authorities. The call for improved safety measures by the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity reveals a community grappling with fear and uncertainty. Ensuring the safety of citizens and businesses should be a top priority for the government.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the petrol station in Bishnupur?
A bomb was detonated at a petrol station in Moirang Thana Leikai on January 8, causing damage but no injuries.
Who were the militants arrested?
Three militants associated with KYKL and PREPAK were arrested, including Hijam Manichandra Singh, who is linked to the petrol station blast.
Why were petrol pumps closed in Manipur?
Petrol pumps were closed as a protest against the attacks on fuel stations, demanding better security for their safety.
What security measures are being requested by the MPDF?
The MPDF is requesting increased security at petrol stations, government accountability for attacks, and compensation for damages.
What weapons were recovered by security forces?
Security forces recovered an SLR, two single-barrel guns, and three pistols, along with ammunition in Imphal West.
