Manipur Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh Warns Hill Districts of Potential Militant Attacks

Security forces in Manipur are on high alert following intelligence reports suggesting potential militant attacks in peripheral villages. Kuldiep Singh, the state's security advisor, shared that these reports have been circulating for several days. He noted that the government deemed it necessary to inform the public about the measures being taken to counter these threats.

During a press conference, Singh mentioned a strategic operations group meeting held on September 18. The meeting focused on strategies to combat drone and rocket attacks. Plans have been communicated to remote areas to prevent militant movements, with intelligence being shared among various agencies. Singh emphasised the need for immediate action if any group of 30 or more militants is detected.

High Alert and Security Measures

Districts such as Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Ukhrul, Kamjong, and Pherzawl are on high alert. Traditional combing operations now include checks for materials used in manufacturing rockets and drones. District magistrates have been alerted, and roads and villages within a 5 km radius towards the hills are being monitored.

Singh reported that approximately 468 bunkers have been destroyed since the ethnic violence began. Anti-drone measures are being implemented with the help of Assam Rifles and the Army, deploying numerous systems. The CRPF has also deployed anti-drone guns to enhance security.

Weapon Recovery and Arrests

Over 6,000 weapons were looted during the unrest, with security forces recovering 2,681 of them. Of these recovered weapons, around 1,200 were looted items. Additionally, 800 sophisticated weapons were among those not looted. Following a rocket attack on September 6 in Moirang, 26 weapons were recovered from hill areas during extensive operations.

The drone bomb attack at Koutruk on September 2 has been handed over to the NIA for investigation. Singh stated that drones had not previously been used for bombing in Manipur due to limited technology. However, central agencies possess better facilities for identifying and investigating such incidents.

Challenges in Difficult Terrains

A total of 533 individuals involved in violence have been arrested so far, many from outside the state. Singh noted that maintaining peace involves around 60,000 soldiers. He explained that arrests are higher in the valley due to more cases there. The hilly terrains pose challenges as they allow militants to observe movements easily.

Operations lasting 40 days were needed to arrest three individuals involved in an attack on the Chief Minister's convoy. Pompi guns and unfired rockets have also been recovered, but authorities have not yet located their manufacturing sites.

External Involvement and Recent Developments

Sophisticated weapons found in Manipur are believed to originate from outside the state. Responding to former DG of Assam Rifles PC Nair's comments denying drone or rocket use in Manipur, Singh stated that drone bombings did occur according to their investigations.

The police obtained several leads while investigating a recent kidnapping case involving a minister's personal assistant from Imphal East district. Two CRPF battalions have replaced the 9th and 22nd Assam Rifles as part of ongoing efforts to maintain security.