The attack is expected to lead to a significant review of security protocols and a potential intensification of counter-insurgency operations in the state
TFM Report
In a brazen attack underscoring the persistent volatility in Manipur, two personnel of the Assam Rifles were killed and five others injured when their vehicle was ambushed by unidentified armed men in Nambol Sabal Leikai area on the outskirts of the state capital, Imphal, on Friday.
The deadly assault occurred in the Bishnupur district, a region that has witnessed significant ethnic strife over the past two years. According to a statement confirmed by the Indian Army, the incident took place when a quick reaction team of the Assam Rifles was on a routine patrol mission.
Initial reports from defence sources indicate that the troops were traveling in a convoy when their vehicle was suddenly raked with intense automatic gunfire from “heavily armed militants” who had strategically positioned themselves near the road. The attackers are suspected to have used sophisticated weapons and grenades in the well-planned ambush.
The soldiers, caught in a hail of bullets, attempted to retaliate but were severely outgunned in the initial moments of the surprise attack. The ambush resulted in the immediate death of one jawan at the spot, while another succumbed to his grievous injuries en route to the hospital.
“The vehicle was ambushed by unknown armed miscreants. Two personnel succumbed to their injuries. Five other personnel have been injured and are currently receiving medical treatment. Their condition is reported to be stable,” said a report quoting an official army sources.
Reinforcements were rushed to the location immediately following the attack, and a massive combing operation has been launched in the surrounding areas to track down and neutralize the perpetrators. The entire area has been put on high alert, with security forces establishing checkpoints and intensifying patrols.
The jawans killed are Naib Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap. “All ranks of the Assam Rifles pay solemn tribute to those who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty in Manipur today and offer deep condolences to the families of our Brave soldiers,” the Assam Rifles said in a post on X.
This attack is a grim reminder of the deteriorating security situation in Manipur, which has been grappling with a complex ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 2023. While much of the violence has been inter-community, this direct assault on a central paramilitary force points to the active involvement of armed groups seeking to exploit the instability.
The Assam Rifles, which has been at the forefront of maintaining order and mediating between the communities in the strife-torn state, has often found itself targeted. This incident marks one of the most significant attacks on security forces in recent months.
While no group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, security agencies are investigating the involvement of armed outfits or groups taking advantage of the ongoing conflict. Political leaders and top officials have condemned the attack.
The attack is expected to lead to a significant review of security protocols and a potential intensification of counter-insurgency operations in the state, as the central government faces increasing pressure to restore lasting peace and order in Manipur.