Mass Combing Operations Initiated to Apprehend Culprits of Jiribam Killings, Says Manipur CM N Biren Singh

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh announced on Tuesday that extensive search operations are being conducted to apprehend those responsible for the recent killings of three women and three children in Jiribam district. Although no arrests have been made yet, several suspects have been identified. Singh emphasised that the operations will continue until the culprits are apprehended.

Following incidents on November 7 and November 11 in Jiribam, two CRPF companies were dispatched immediately, with five more added later. The search efforts are ongoing, Singh informed reporters. "Unless the culprits are arrested and booked, the operations will carry on," he stated.

Security Measures and Investigations

The tragic events involved three women and three children from the Meitei community who disappeared from a relief camp in Jiribam after a gunfight between security forces and suspected Kuki-Zo militants. This clash resulted in the deaths of 10 insurgents on November 11, and the bodies of the missing individuals were discovered in subsequent days.

Singh mentioned that due to the sensitive nature of the situation, constant updates through media channels are challenging. "There have been instances of sabotages and resulting disturbances when the government publicly announces something," he explained.

Complexity of State Issues

The chief minister highlighted that both national and international leaders, along with the home ministry, have been informed about the complex issues in Manipur, including external influences. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has re-registered cases related to all Jiribam incidents, including attacks on CRPF personnel and the deaths of 10 militants.

Singh urged people to remain calm as it is a complex situation that cannot be handled emotionally. He also reiterated his government's demand for removing AFSPA from areas where it was recently reimposed by the Centre due to ongoing ethnic violence.

Political Reactions and Statements

The Union Home Ministry reimposed AFSPA in six police station areas of Manipur, including Jiribam, citing continuous volatility. Singh asserted that some groups are misrepresenting the conflict faced by the government, which arose from efforts to protect indigenous people from illegal immigrants and drugs.

In response to Kuki MLA Paolienlal Haokip's reported remarks suggesting that the killings were retaliatory acts, Singh stated, "We have lodged an FIR against him." Regarding a missing Meitei labourer who disappeared after visiting an army camp at Leimakhong in Kangpokpi district, Singh assured that state and paramilitary forces are working to locate him.

The chief minister reaffirmed his commitment to addressing these issues without compromise. He stressed that safeguarding indigenous communities remains a priority for his administration amidst these challenges.