Breaking News: Two Manipur Police Commandos Killed in Militant Attack
January 17, 2024: In a tragic incident, two Manipur Police commandos lost their lives and two others were injured in a militant attack along the Myanmar border in Manipur’s Moreh area. The incident occurred during a search operation conducted by the security forces, according to police officials in Imphal.
Attack Details
During the operation, suspected militants launched an attack on the security forces, resulting in the death of commando Wangkhem Somorjit and injuries to three other personnel. Unfortunately, commando Takhellambam Saileshwore also succumbed to his injuries. Somorjit hailed from Malom area, while Saileshwore was from Lamsang Akham in Imphal’s West district.
When the injured security personnel were being shifted to the hospital, a group of tribals, including women, tried to obstruct their way, leading to a clash with the forces. Several tribal individuals were injured during the altercation.
Clash Controversy
Initially, both the police and the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF), an apex body of tribals in Manipur, claimed that a woman had been killed in the clash. However, later reports clarified that the woman had been unconscious due to serious injuries but was alive and receiving medical treatment at a hospital.
Intense Exchange of Fire
Throughout the day, there were reports of heavy exchange of fire between the security forces and the militants in three different locations in Moreh. The militants even used rocket-propelled grenades against the security forces, escalating tensions in the area.
In response to the situation, additional security forces, including Assam Rifles, have been deployed to the bordering areas to restore control and maintain peace.
Protests and Government Response
Hundreds of protestors, including members of the leading women’s organization Meira Paibis, organized rallies demanding the reinforcement of state forces in Moreh. They attempted to march towards the Chief Minister’s official residence but were stopped by the security forces.
Following the Moreh incident, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh held a meeting with top security officials to review the situation and formulate appropriate measures. The Manipur government has also requested the Union Home Ministry to provide additional helicopters to address emergency requirements in the border areas.
Appeals for Action
The Moreh-based Meetei Council and the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) have separately appealed to the central and state governments to take swift action against the Kuki militants supported by insurgents from Myanmar. They have called for enhanced collaboration between state and central security forces to ensure the safety of citizens in Moreh.
Curfew Imposed
Fearing further violence, the district administration has imposed a total curfew in the troubled Tengnoupal district. The decision was made in response to inputs indicating a potential breach of peace and disturbance of public tranquillity, posing a grave danger to human lives and property.
Arrests and Demands for Release
In an unrelated development, BJP leader Hemkholal Mate and former soldier Philip Khaikholal Khongsai were arrested in Moreh in connection with the killing of Sub-Divisional Police Officer Chingtham Anand Kumar. In response, tribals in the border town demanded their release, while protests erupted in Imphal Valley, calling for the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to handle the case and ensure exemplary punishment for the detainees.
About Moreh
Moreh is a significant trading town located on the India-Myanmar border in the Tengnoupal district. People from various communities, including Kuki, Meitei, Naga, Tamil, Pangal, Gorkha, and Sikh, have been residing peacefully in Moreh for decades. The town is just four kilometers west of Myanmar’s largest border town, Tamu, and 110 kilometers south of Imphal.
Conclusion
The recent militant attack in Manipur’s Moreh area has claimed the lives of two police commandos and left two others injured. The situation remains tense as security forces continue to engage with the militants. Protests and appeals for action have emerged from various groups, demanding swift measures to ensure the safety and security of the citizens. The district administration has imposed a curfew to prevent further violence, while the government is seeking additional support from the Union Home Ministry to address the law and order situation in the border areas. The incident highlights the need for collaborative efforts between state and central security forces to restore peace and stability in Moreh.
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