Security Forces Kill 11 Militants in Manipur as Ethnic Violence Escalates

Jiribam, Manipur: In a major security operation on Monday, at least eleven militants were killed during an encounter with Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Manipur's Jiribam district. The gunfight erupted when the militants launched an attack on a CRPF camp, sparking intense retaliatory action from the security forces. The incident underscores the ongoing ethnic violence in the region, which has claimed over 200 lives and displaced thousands since the conflict between the Imphal-based Meitei community and the Kuki community in the surrounding hills flared up in May of last year.

In a separate but related incident, militants set fire to multiple shops in the Borobekra subdivision of Jiribam district. Around 2:30 p.m., the militants fired shots toward the Borobekra police station before advancing towards Jakurador Karong, where they engaged in arson, targeting local establishments and escalating tensions further.

The violence extended to Imphal East district, where a farmer working in his fields sustained injuries from militant gunfire originating from nearby hilltop positions. This marked the third consecutive day of assaults on farmers in the Imphal Valley by hill-based militants. Security forces quickly responded, resulting in a brief exchange of fire. The injured farmer received immediate medical attention at the Yaingangpokpi Primary Health Center and is reported to be in stable condition.

In ongoing security operations, a joint team of Assam Rifles and Manipur Police confiscated a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) over the last three days. These raids took place in both hill and valley districts, aiming to weaken militant activity in the area.

On Saturday, security forces conducted a successful operation in the jungles near L. Khonomphai village in Churachandpur district. The team seized an array of weapons, including a .303 rifle, two 9 mm pistols, six single-barrel shotguns, and a .22 rifle, along with assorted ammunition and other tactical supplies.

In another operation between S. Choungoubung and Maohing in Kangpokpi district, the joint team recovered more weapons, including a 5.56 mm INSAS rifle, a .303 rifle, two shotguns, two .22 pistols, improvised projectile launchers, grenades, and additional ammunition.

The ongoing violence in Manipur has left communities on edge, as armed confrontations and attacks on civilians continue to strain local resources and deepen ethnic divides. Security forces remain on high alert, conducting rigorous search operations to prevent further escalation. As peace and stability remain elusive in the region, the Assam Rifles and state police are committed to intensified operations aimed at restoring order and safeguarding civilians amidst the volatile situation.