Intensified Security Operations in Manipur Following Kuki Militant Attack; Illegally Built Bunkers Destroyed
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Imphal, March 26 (NationPress) Security forces in Manipur executed extensive operations on Thursday in Bishnupur district following a shooting incident involving suspected armed Kuki militants in the Phouljang and Gothol areas, where they targeted an Indian Army installation, officials reported.
A police representative in Imphal indicated that the militants fired upon the Indian Army post situated in Phougakchao Awang Leikai. In response, the Indian Army and the Central Reserve Police Force (58th Battalion) stationed in the vicinity retaliated promptly, resulting in an exchange of gunfire that lasted approximately 30 minutes late Wednesday night.
The official further mentioned that from the early hours of Thursday, a collaborative operation was initiated by the Indian Army, CRPF, Manipur Police, and Manipur Armed Forces (Indian Reserve Battalion) in the areas where the shooting occurred and in neighboring hilly regions.
“The situation is under continuous surveillance, and security forces will continue their efforts in the surrounding hilly areas,” he stated.
Authorities from Manipur Police have advised civilians to avoid spreading misinformation and to confirm facts before sharing.
In a related development, security forces, continuing operations that commenced on Wednesday, dismantled six unlawfully constructed bunkers in the Litan and Mongkat Chepu Upper village areas of Ukhrul district.
Post-operation, most bunkers in the violence-affected Litan area have been neutralized. Security forces remain vigilant, with troops strategically stationed to avert any escalation of violence in the region, the official added.
Additionally, security forces apprehended an active member of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) from the Patsoi area of Imphal West district. The detained militant has been identified as Asem Subash Meitei, alias Lingjelkhomba (30). A mobile device was confiscated from him.
In another significant operation, on Sunday (March 22), security forces arrested 14 members of the UNLF (Koireng faction) from the Haokhong area of Thoubal district. A considerable cache of items was recovered from them, including two INSAS rifles, 13 various weapon magazines, 100 rounds of INSAS ammunition, cash totaling Rs one lakh, 12 mobile phones, five helmets, five backpacks, and four vehicles.
Security forces, comprising both central and state units, persist in their extensive crackdowns on militant activities across the state. Ongoing search operations and area domination drives are taking place in mixed-population, fringe, and vulnerable areas across multiple districts.
A total of 113 checkpoints have been established throughout Manipur in both valley and hill districts to monitor and restrict the movement of suspicious individuals and vehicles.
Moreover, security forces are providing escorts for vehicles, including trucks carrying essential supplies, along the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37).
Strict security protocols and convoy protection measures are in effect in sensitive areas to ensure safe transit. Manipur Police have once more urged the public not to fall for rumors or be misled by fake videos circulating on social media.