Northeast Desk, 13th April: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) submitted a charge sheet against two individuals, including the primary conspirator, in connection with last year’s car bomb explosion in Manipur, which left three individuals injured, according to an official statement released on Saturday.
The agency filed the charge sheet before a special NIA court in Bishnupur, Manipur, on Friday, detailing the events surrounding the explosion that occurred on June 21, 2023. The blast, caused by a bomb planted in a Mahindra Scorpio, occurred on a bridge connecting Phougakchao Ikhai Awang Leikai and Kwakta area along Tiddim road (NH-02), resulting in injuries to three individuals and extensive damage to infrastructure and nearby residences.
Mohammed Noor Hussain, also known as Tomba or Mohammed Nur Hasan, and Seiminlun Gangte, identified as the primary conspirator, were apprehended in connection with the incident.
According to the statement, the NIA charged the two accused, along with others, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Explosive Substances Act 1908, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984.
Hussain, arrested on October 16 last year, was found to have driven the SUV containing the IED and parked it on the bridge in Kwakta. His co-passenger then initiated the detonation mechanism of the explosive device.
Gangte, arrested on November 2, 2023, allegedly conspired with his associates to orchestrate the blast with the intention of instilling fear and disrupting the movement of security forces, civilians, and essential supplies in the region.
The NIA revealed that Gangte recruited accomplices to survey the area and carry out the explosion as part of their plan.
The investigation is ongoing to apprehend other suspects involved in the case who remain at large, according to the NIA.
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