An Assam Rifles camp in Manipur’s Senapati town came under attack after a crowd allegedly attempted to disrupt a security operation launched against suspected armed cadres. The violence led to stone-pelting, arson and damage to multiple military vehicles before security forces restored order late on Tuesday night.
According to defence officials, the operation was launched after intelligence inputs suggested the movement of armed cadres outside designated camps in possible violation of ceasefire ground rules. The incident unfolded as security personnel carried out search operations in areas near the designated NSCN(IM) camp at Oklong.
Search operation triggered by intelligence inputs
A defence spokesperson said Assam Rifles launched an area domination patrol and search operation in the Makuilongdi area, around 2 km west of the designated NSCN(IM) camp at Oklong, following credible intelligence about the presence of armed cadres.
The official said intelligence reports, along with social media posts, indicated that armed cadres were moving outside designated camps while carrying weapons and wearing uniforms. The Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG) was informed about the reported violations.
As the operation progressed, Assam Rifles columns approaching Makuilongdi and Oklong villages were stopped by a large gathering of local residents, including women.
The spokesperson said troops exercised restraint and held discussions with local representatives. The force assured them that the operation was intended to maintain security and that personnel would not enter villages without the consent of the authorities.
Mob attacks Assam Rifles camp
According to the defence official, tension escalated later in the evening after reports emerged around 9 pm that a large crowd had assembled in Senapati town and was moving towards the Assam Rifles camp.
Although the patrol columns had already withdrawn, the crowd reached the camp around 9.30 pm and allegedly pelted stones, damaged property and attempted to set parts of the premises on fire.
Security personnel, working with the Manipur Police, used blank rounds and tear-gas grenades to disperse the crowd, the spokesperson said.
The Senapati Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were deployed to bring the situation under control.
During the violence, one Assam Rifles light vehicle was set on fire, two trucks were overturned and extensively damaged, and a civilian car was also reportedly torched.
Officials said the situation was brought under control by midnight. No injuries or fatalities were reported among civilians or security personnel.
The defence spokesperson said security forces have since engaged with civil society organisations and district authorities to address concerns and maintain communal harmony.
Three detained in July 6 Ukhrul ambush investigation
Meanwhile, police detained three suspected persons during search operations in TM Kasom, Litan and Sikibung areas in connection with the July 6 ambush in Manipur’s Ukhrul district.
Two Assam Rifles personnel were killed after suspected Naga armed militants ambushed an Assam Rifles vehicle at Nungshang Kong along the Imphal-Dimapur National Highway (NH-2).
The slain personnel were identified as Warrant Officer Balwant Singh and Havildar Chandra Mohan Singh.
The National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) has denied involvement in the attack and said it remains committed to the ceasefire agreement with the Centre and the ongoing Indo-Naga peace process.