IT News
Imphal, Mar 6:
Hours after the adjournment of the 5th session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, the tranquility in Koutruk and Kadangband area in Imphal West district was shattered by the sound of machine gun fire once again.
According to reports, suspected armed Kuki militants unleashed a barrage of bullets towards Koutruk Ching Leikai area around 8:30 pm yesterday, firing from the hilltop of Koutruk Maning Ching. Village Volunteers, along with personnel from the Manipur Rifles and the IRB team deployed nearby, swiftly responded to the attack. After a brief pause, the militants resumed firing around 10 pm, prompting another round of confrontation. The exchange of gunfire lasted nearly an hour, with no reported casualties on either side.
Meanwhile, state security forces, aided by the Assam Rifles and central forces, made significant seizures of arms and ammunition during search operations in various parts of Kangpokpi district. Recovered items included a CMG Rifle with magazines, a 9 MM pistol, a homemade pistol, a two-inch mortar, and various explosives, as confirmed by a police source.
In response to the escalating tensions, security measures have been heightened along NH-2 and NH-37. Manipur Police’s microblogging site reported the smooth movement of 384 and 191 vehicles along NH-02 and NH-37, respectively, ensuring the transportation of essential items. Rigorous security protocols have been implemented in vulnerable areas, with security convoys deployed in sensitive stretches to facilitate safe passage for vehicles.
Manipur Police revealed that a total of 139 checkpoints were established across different districts of the state, encompassing both hills and valleys. Additionally, 270 individuals were detained for various violations across different districts, demonstrating the authorities’ commitment to maintaining law and order.
