Imphal: Fresh clashes erupted in Manipur’s Churachandpur district after unidentified miscreants reportedly vandalised and removed decorations set up in anticipation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s likely visit tomorrow.
While police and security forces have not released an official statement, sources indicate that unknown individuals went on a rampage last night, targeting structures and arrangements made for the Prime Minister’s expected visit to the district.
The incident lasted for approximately an hour and a half, prompting authorities to tighten security measures in the area.
The Manipur government had banned use of drone, arms in Churachandpur district. As a security measure police and security forces destroyed a bunker built by Kuki militants at Kangpokpi.
Preparations for the high-profile visit, Modi’s first to the state since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023, continued.
Banners have been put up which said the PM will announce projects worth Rs 7,300 crore in Churachandpur, while infrastructure projects valued at Rs 1,200 crore will be inaugurated at Kangla in Imphal.
Security Forces continued their intensified search operations and area domination in fringe and vulnerable areas across Manipur.
In Jiribam district, forces recovered a cache of weapons and explosives from the foothill areas of Sonapur and Jairolpokpi villages under Jiribam Police Station.
The recoveries included a modified SBBL gun, three country-made muzzle loading SBBL guns, a .22 pistol, a country-made .22 DBBL shotgun, eight 12 bore cartridges, 56 vials and three bottles containing gunpowder, 240 pieces of lead and an iron rod used for filling gunpowder.
In a separate operation in Thoubal district, police arrested two persons from their residence at Lilong Ushoipokpi Tharaorok Machin. The accused were identified as Md. Amir Khan , and his wife Samim Banum.
From their possession, security forces seized 35 grams of heroin and a mobile phone with a SIM card.
A militant was also nabbed in Imphal. Frisking of vehicles has started and security personnel are posted at strategic locations.
There will be a special security arrangement tomorrow during the visit of the PM as Cor Com the umbrella organisation of Manipur based militants have imposed a total shut down in the state.
