Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: Suspected militants triggered an improvised explosive device blast that destroyed a Bailey bridge in Manipur’s Kamjong district. The attack occurred between Phange and Chatric villages along the Namban Lok River. The structure served as the primary connection between Sahamphung Block and the district headquarters. It is gone.
Reports indicate the destruction happened around 9:30 am. During the same assault, attackers set fire to a Telecom Department Bolero pick-up vehicle parked on the riverbank. The truck was left completely gutted. More than 10 villages now face total isolation. This route was the only path to reach government offices, markets, schools, and emergency services for thousands of residents.
Police investigators discovered debris at the site, including components scattered across a blue plastic tarpaulin. While no group has claimed the operation, local frustration is boiling over. Khanuithot-Khon, a group representing Naga youth, publicly slammed the destruction. They described the incident as a major setback, stating, "The Chattric route had become the only practical route for thousands of people to access healthcare, educational institutions, markets, government offices, employment opportunities and emergency services."
Authorities registered a suo motu case to pursue the perpetrators. Officers from the Kamjong Police are processing the crime scene. Investigators believe the objective was to spread fear, disrupt vital communications, and restrict civilian movement. While some residents pointed fingers at Kuki militant groups, these allegations remain unconfirmed. The region remains on edge as officials scramble to assess the damage to this essential infrastructure.
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