Militant Attack in Manipur Claims Lives of Two CRPF Personnel

In a distressing incident in Manipur's Bishnupur district, two Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel lost their lives, and two others sustained injuries following an attack by militants. The assault occurred in the early hours of Saturday at an India Reserve Battalion (IRBn) camp situated in Naranseina, within the Moirang Police Station jurisdiction. According to police reports, the militants launched their offensive from hilltops around 12:30 am, which lasted until approximately 2:15 am, involving indiscriminate firing and bomb hurling at the camp.

The attack specifically targeted the outpost of CRPF's 128 battalion, resulting in casualties and injuries among the security forces. The deceased were identified as Sub-Inspector N. Sarkar from Assam's Kokrajhar district and Head Constable Arup Saini from Bankura district in West Bengal. The injured personnel, Inspector Jadav Das and Constable Aftab Das, suffered splinter wounds and were promptly admitted to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences in Imphal, where they are reported to be out of danger.

The CRPF personnel were stationed at the camp to bolster security for the IRBn setup. In response to this violent outbreak, massive search operations have been initiated to apprehend those responsible for the attack.

Manipur's Chief Minister N. Biren Singh condemned the attack, highlighting it as an act of cowardice against dedicated security forces committed to maintaining peace and stability in the state. He assured that the sacrifices of the fallen personnel would not be in vain.

Search Operations and Recovery Efforts

In the aftermath of the attack, security forces have intensified their efforts in Churachandpur district, leading to the destruction of three bunkers and the recovery of four firearms. These operations targeted fringe and vulnerable areas across hill and valley districts, with firearms being recovered from several locations including Lower Khoirentak, Upper Khoirentak, Heichanglok, Chingphei, and Langchingmanbi. The dismantled bunkers were located at strategic elevated positions near Naranseina, close to where the CRPF outpost was attacked.

The Manipur Police issued a statement detailing these operations as part of their ongoing efforts to dominate the area and prevent further militant activities. This incident has once again brought to light the challenges faced by security forces in maintaining law and order in regions prone to militant attacks.

The state's response underscores a determined effort to track down and neutralize threats to peace and security while also paying homage to those who have paid the ultimate price in their line of duty. As search operations continue, there is a collective hope for swift justice and a reinforced commitment towards safeguarding the region against such acts of violence.