A recent ambush in Manipur, which resulted in the deaths of two Assam Rifles personnel, is under investigation with a focus on the possibility that it was a "contract killing" intended to destabilize the region, according to intelligence reports. The attack, which occurred on September 19 in Nambol Sabal Leikai, a region not under the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), has raised concerns due to the unusual silence from the People's Liberation Army (PLA), a banned insurgent group. The PLA, known for claiming responsibility for its actions over the past 48 years, has not acknowledged the Nambol ambush.
This departure from established patterns has led investigators to explore alternative motives, including the potential for a politically motivated act aimed at undermining the current administration and disrupting progress toward civilian rule. Authorities are examining the possibility of political support for the PLA, especially after the United National Liberation Front's (UNLF) recent decision to suspend hostilities and join the Union Home Ministry's Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement. Analysts suggest that disgruntled members of groups like the PLA, UNLF, KYKL, and PREPAK could exploit the ceasefire to target civilians.
In the aftermath of the attack, security forces have launched a major crackdown, arresting 15 PLA cadres, including two prime suspects: Thoungram Sadananda Singh (18) and Khomdram Ojit Singh (47). These arrests were made within 72 hours of the ambush. Further investigations revealed that Thoungram Sadananda Singh had previously been associated with the UNLF before joining the PLA. Security forces have also recovered six weapons, likely stolen from a police armory during earlier ethnic clashes, and a van believed to have been used in the ambush.
Manipur has been grappling with instability stemming from long-standing disputes over land rights, political representation, and identity, particularly between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. Since large-scale clashes began in May 2023, the state has recorded over 260 deaths and nearly 50,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs). The ongoing violence, fueled by recruitment, extortion, and narcotics, has complicated peace efforts.
An emergency security meeting, chaired by Governor Ajay Bhalla, addressed the evolving threat and emphasized the need for enhanced convoy and highway security, particularly for troop movements and public transportation routes. Security officials provided an overview of insurgent groups active in Manipur. Recent operations have resulted in the arrest of multiple insurgents and the recovery of arms and ammunition. These coordinated efforts demonstrate a commitment to restoring stability in the region.
