Manipur News: A police convoy that was getting ready for Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s impending visit was ambushed by suspected Kuki militants on Monday morning, serving as a sharp reminder of the growing tensions in Manipur. One police officer was hurt in the incident, which happened along National Highway 37 close to T. Laijang hamlet in the Kangpokpi district.
Attack Details
Around 10:40 am, an attack occurred on the convoy that was serving as a guard in advance of the Chief Minister’s arrival to Jiribam. The ambush location is strategically vital; it is located in the Kuki-Zomi-dominated territory of Kangpokpi, approximately 26 kilometres from Imphal. A bullet hit Moirangthem Ajesh, a 32-year-old police officer from the Bishnupur area, in the right shoulder. He was quickly taken to an Imphal hospital for medical attention.
Escalating Ethnic Tensions
Since May 3 of last year, Jiribam has been relatively peaceful, while Manipur has been engulfed in ethnic violence. The district is home to a varied population that includes Meiteis, Kuki-Zos, Bengalis, Muslims, and Nagas. It borders the Cachar district of Assam.
On June 6, the death of Soibam Saratkumar Singh, a Meitei man with markings on his body, was found. This marked the start of the most recent round of violence. The dwellings of the Hmar-Mizos, a tribe that falls within the wider Zo umbrella, and Meiteis were set on fire as a result of arson assaults that were provoked by this occurrence. A forest beat office and two police outposts were also set on fire.
Relief and Security Measures
Hundreds of locals have taken refuge in makeshift relief camps as hostilities escalate. A sizable police and central security force deployment has been made in the district in order to preserve calm. A joint team of Assam Rifles and state authorities has begun a search operation near the ambush location in reaction to the most recent incident.
Upcoming Visit by the Chief Minister
Despite the volatile situation, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh is scheduled to visit the district on Tuesday. His visit aims to address the ongoing tensions and to oversee the security and relief efforts firsthand.
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