In Manipur, a deadly ambush on an Assam Rifles vehicle has resulted in the death of two jawans and injuries to four others. The incident occurred on Friday evening in the Bishnupur district, specifically near Nambol Sabal Leikai, under the jurisdiction of the Nambol police station.
Reports indicate that the Assam Rifles personnel were traveling in a Tata 407 vehicle when they came under fire from unidentified gunmen at approximately 5:40 PM. The convoy was en route from Imphal when the attack occurred. The ambush resulted in the immediate deaths of two security personnel, while several others, including civilians, sustained injuries. The injured have been transported to nearby hospitals for medical treatment. The exact number of injured individuals is still being confirmed.
Security forces have responded swiftly to the attack, rushing to the site to cordon off the area and launch a thorough investigation. Operations have been intensified in the region, with authorities conducting search operations in Churachandpur, Chandel, and Tengnoupal, recovering arms and ammunition.
This assault marks a significant escalation of violence in Manipur, representing the first major attack on central security forces in the region since the outbreak of ethnic and political unrest on May 3, 2023. The incident also took place two days before a bandh (strike) called by valley-based insurgent groups. These groups are protesting the Manipur Merger Agreement of September 21, 1949, claiming it was conducted under duress. Such groups have historically marked this date with protests.
The last similar incident involving central forces occurred in the Jiribam district, bordering Assam, where a CRPF jawan was killed, and three others were injured in an ambush by suspected militants. The injured included two CRPF personnel and two Manipur police officers.
The location of the ambush, Nambol Sabal Leikai, is situated approximately 8 kilometers from Imphal airport. The attack highlights the continued volatility and security challenges in the region.
