Unrest in Imphal: Police Officer Killed, Arms and Ammunition Looted in Violent Clashes

New Delhi, August 4, 2023: A wave of violence swept through Imphal West and Bishnupur districts, leaving a police officer dead and security posts ransacked on Thursday. Mobs, armed with automatic guns, targeted the Keirenphabi and Thangalawai Police outposts of the Manipur Armed Police second battalion in Bishnupur, looting arms and ammunition.

The situation escalated further as the mob attempted to seize weapons from Heingang and Singjamei police stations, but security forces managed to thwart the attack. In the ensuing confrontations, armed attackers and security forces engaged in exchanges of fire in Koutruk, Haraothel, and Senjam Chirang areas, resulting in injuries to two individuals, including a security personnel.

In a tragic incident in Senjam Chirang, Imphal West, a Manipur police personnel was fatally shot in the head by a sniper. Additionally, a village volunteer sustained injuries in the gun battle after suspected militants opened fire in Koutruk and Senjam Chirang from nearby hill ranges.

Tensions escalated as a large crowd of 500-600 people assembled at Phougakchao Ikhai, on the border between Bishnupur and Churachandpur districts. Security forces resorted to firing tear gas shells to disperse the mob, leading to approximately 25 minor injuries.

The situation in Manipur remains volatile and tense, with sporadic incidents of firing and unruly gatherings reported in different places, according to a police statement.

In response to the escalating violence, authorities have set up a total of 129 checkpoints in both hill and valley districts of Manipur. The police have detained around 1,047 individuals in connection with violations in various parts of the state.

The northeastern state has been grappling with ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, triggered by the Meitei’s demand for Scheduled Tribes (ST) status. The ongoing violence has resulted in numerous casualties and displaced thousands, further adding to the unrest and instability in the region.