Northeast Desk, 4th August: The situation in Manipur remains tense as sporadic incidents of firing and mob congregation were reported over the last 24 hours, according to a press release from the police on August 3.
Seven unlawful bunkers were destroyed as a result of security forces’ operations in the Koutruk Hill range. However, a mob managed to storm the police outpost in Keirenphabi and Thangalawai in Bishnupur, stealing a cache of arms and ammunition. Their attempt to snatch arms from a Manipur rifles battalion was repelled.
An exchange of fire between armed miscreants in Koutruk Haraothei and Senjam Chirang left two people injured, including one security personnel who later succumbed to his injuries.
To maintain order, a total of 129 checkpoints have been established in different districts of the state, both in the Hills and the Valley, with 1047 people detained. The police have ensured the movement of vehicles carrying essential items on NH37 and NH32.
After skirmishes between security forces and villagers in Churachandpur, a curfew was enforced throughout Imphal West and Imphal East in reaction to the situation. The clashes occurred when a large group of locals, primarily women from the Meitei community, attempted to move toward Churanchandpur from Bishnupur. This march was organized following an announcement by a Tribal organization of the Kukis to bury some of those who died in the violence near the area. However, the burial was deferred after a court-ordered restraint from both communities.
The police have urged the public not to believe in rumors and to be cautious of fake videos circulating on social media. They have set up a helpline for reporting such videos.
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