Imphal: In a major escalation of violence, suspected Kuki militants ambushed the security convoy of Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh along National Highway 37 at T. Laijang near Kotlen village in Kangpokpi district, injuring one escort driver on Monday. The ambush occurred around 10:50 AM as the convoy was en route to Jiribam ahead of the Chief Minister’s scheduled visit to the violence-hit district on Tuesday.
The injured escort driver has been identified as Moirangthem Ajesh, also known as Bobo, a 28-year-old resident of Thanga Ngaram in Bishnupur district. He is currently receiving treatment at Shija Hospital, Langol, Imphal. He was rushed to the hospital post-noon under tight security. According to doctors, Ajesh’s condition is not critical. The escort driver sustained a bullet wound to his right shoulder.
The attack comes on the heels of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s return to Imphal this afternoon after attending the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi last evening. The Chief Minister’s visit to Jiribam was intended to address the escalating violence and restore peace in the district.
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Following the ambush, a team of Manipur police, including Commando personnel, was promptly dispatched to the scene. A joint search operation was subsequently launched with the assistance of Assam Rifles to apprehend the assailants and ensure the safety of the area.
Meanwhile, the ongoing violence in Jiribam district has escalated as armed Kuki miscreants have reportedly dismantled several key bridges, causing significant disruption and threatening the connectivity of the area. Among the bridges targeted, the Harinagar bridge was dismantled yesterday, prompting intervention from Assam Rifles personnel who undertook immediate repairs. In addition to the Harinagar bridge, the Latingkhal bridge and Goakhal bridge have also been found dismantled by miscreants.
Moreover, the Makhabosti Forest Beat was set ablaze by the miscreants, adding to the growing list of attacks on infrastructure in the district. These acts of sabotage are contributing to the already tense situation in Jiribam, which has seen a spike in violence following the recent Lok Sabha election results.
Also read | Suspected Kuki Assailants Kill Farmer in Jiribam, Sparking Communal Tension, Curfew Clamped
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