Ukhrul: A 56-year-old man from the Meitei community, Laishram Kamalbabu, has been missing since Monday after leaving for work at the 57 Mountain Division campus of the Indian Army in Leimakhong. Originally from Gosaipur in Cachar District, Assam, and residing in Loitang Khunou, Imphal West District, Kamalbabu works as a supervisor for MS Binod Constructions, a firm engaged in construction projects within the Army campus.
Also read | Kuki Chiefs Association Expresses Gratitude to Manipur Security Officials
According to reports, Kamalbabu left for work on Monday morning at around 9 AM, riding his Honda Activa scooter. However, his family later discovered that his phone was switched off, and his whereabouts remain unknown. The family has since filed a missing person report at the Sekmai Police Station.
Also Read | United Naga Council Addresses ADC Issues
The Army and police have launched a search operation to locate Kamalbabu. Meanwhile, irate locals blocked Leimakhong Road at Kanto Sabal on Tuesday, demanding swift action to find the missing man. Protesters have expressed suspicions of the involvement of armed Kuki groups in his disappearance and voiced outrage over the incident occurring within the Army campus.
In response to the growing protests, the Army has erected barbed wire barriers along the road to maintain order. The search operation is ongoing, and authorities have yet to provide further updates at the time of filing this report.
Also read | Photojournalist Brutally Attacked by Miscreants in Tripura, Six Arrested
Meanwhile, the Government of Manipur, in coordination with central security forces, said it launched a massive operation in Jiribam following the brutal killing of six civilians, including three children and three women, allegedly by Kuki terrorists. Another victim, a Hmar woman, was also reportedly killed in the area.
As per DIPR issued on Monday, condemning the heinous attack as a deliberate attempt to disrupt communal harmony, the state government has reinforced security in the district, deploying additional forces to prevent further violence and ensure residents’ safety. A joint effort involving state police and central paramilitary units is underway to track down and apprehend the perpetrators. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and cooperate during the operations, reaffirming their commitment to restoring peace and protecting citizens. The government also expressed its deepest condolences to the victims’ families.
Also Read | Will This Winter Session of Parliament Address the Crisis in Manipur?