Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Imphal: Security forces detained three people following the July 6 ambush that killed two Assam Rifles personnel in Manipur. The operation targeted the TM Kasom, Litan and Sikibung areas of Ukhrul district. It remains ongoing.
Militants ambushed the convoy as it returned to the 40th Assam Rifles Battalion headquarters at Shangshak near Nungshang Khong. The site sits 17 km from the district headquarters. Assailants triggered multiple improvised explosive devices on both sides of a bridge before opening fire. Warrant Officer Balwant Singh and Havildar Chandra Mohan Singh died in the attack.
A joint task force involving the Border Security Force and Manipur Police swept forests and residential zones to find the attackers. Police report that daily life continues without major interruption. Shops are open. Farmers are working. Traffic flows on National Highway 202 as planned. Police stated, "Farming activities are continuing unhindered, shops remain open and regulated traffic on NH-202 is moving as planned."
The Tangkhul Naga Long, the apex body of the Tangkhul Naga community, claims security forces also picked up four civilians during the search. They identified the men as Wungphayo Kasar, 24, AS Ninglum, 29, Yaoreingam Lungleng, 24, and Vareiyo Lungleng, 56. All four hail from Sharkaphung village in Kamjong district. The organization demanded their immediate release. They threatened widespread protests against the state government if the men are not freed within 24 hours.
The NSCN-IM denied involvement in the ambush. They cited an active ceasefire agreement with the central government. Officials continue to trace the perpetrators.
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