Imphal, June 11: The convoy of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh was ambushed by armed militants in the Kangpokpi district, on monday. The convoy, en route from Imphal to the tension-gripped region of Jiribam, was attacked by suspected Kuki militants. The attack resulted in injuries to a security person from Manipur Police and a civil driver.

A video capturing the attack has surfaced, featuring the sound of multiple gunshots and the panicked shouts of a man in the background. This footage highlights the severity of the ambush and the immediate danger faced by those involved.

Reports indicate that despite numerous intelligence inputs and warnings from the Chief Minister’s office to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) over the past six months, Manipur Police failed to act on the information.

Further search operations around K Sinam village led to the recovery of several empty bullet cases and the destruction of illegal hideouts and bunkers used by the militants. Additional security forces, both state and central, have been mobilized to neutralize any further threats along the route.

The ambush occurred against a backdrop of escalating violence in Manipur. The recent surge in violence began on June 6, following the discovery of the body of Soibam Saratkumar Singh, a 59-year-old Meitei farmer who had been missing for weeks. The discovery led to the torching of approximately 70 houses, including some government offices, and the displacement of hundreds of citizens.

The ongoing unrest has prompted urgent calls for enhanced security measures and the right for citizens to arm themselves for protection. Prohibitory orders have been enforced in Jiribam as part of the efforts to restore order. Since last year, ethnic tension has been a significant issue in Manipur, with nearly 239 Meitei people, mostly women and children, being evacuated from the peripheral areas of Jiribam and moved to a newly established relief camp at a multi-sports complex in the district.

Read: Manipur CM N Biren Singh appeals for restoration of peace, assures of strict action

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