Imphal, Dec 17: Fresh tension gripped Torbung and neighbouring Phougakchao Ikhai villages in Manipur’s Bishnupur district on Monday after suspected miscreants allegedly opened fire in the area, triggering panic among residents.

The incident occurred in a vulnerable peripheral zone along the Bishnupur–Churachandpur boundary, an area that had emerged as a flashpoint during the ethnic violence that erupted in 2023. Torbung was one of the epicentres of the conflict and had only recently begun to see the return of displaced residents after more than two-and-a-half years.

Following reports of firing, villagers rushed to safer locations amid fears of renewed attacks. Security agencies immediately deployed additional forces to the area to prevent any escalation and to reassure residents, officials said.

While no casualties have been officially reported so far, the incident has raised concerns about the fragile security situation in buffer zones where displaced families are attempting to rebuild their lives.

Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored and security presence has been strengthened to maintain law and order and prevent further incidents.