Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh has commended the Assam Rifles for apprehending a Burmese national, a move he believes supports his longstanding claim that external forces are fuelling the unrest in the state. Singh, who has been vocal about foreign interference in the current Manipur crisis, reiterated that the involvement of outsiders is now undeniable. “I appreciate the Assam Rifles, who arrested foreign nationals with arms and evidence linking them to militants operating in Manipur,” he stated.
This arrest adds further weight to Singh’s argument, which has been met with scepticism by some quarters. However, the capture of this Burmese national, reportedly involved in the insurgency, bolsters his assertion that foreign elements are contributing to the ongoing violence in the region.
Key Arrest in Assam: Suspected UKNA Leader Detained
In a related development, the Special Task Force (STF) of Assam arrested a senior figure of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA) in Guwahati. L.S. Yosef Chongloi, 34, the self-styled finance secretary of the militant group, was apprehended in the Beltola area on Friday evening after an intelligence-led operation. Chongloi, originally from Churachandpur in Manipur, is suspected of orchestrating multiple sabotage incidents along the Manipur-Assam border.
Authorities believe Chongloi may be linked to recent violent activities, including the bombing of the Sapermaina bridge on National Highway 2 and an armed attack on an Indian Oil Corporation convoy in Tamenglong, Manipur. His arrest is considered a significant breakthrough in tackling insurgent operations in the region.
Grenade Attack on Minister’s Home Sparks Security Fears
In another alarming incident, militants hurled a grenade at the residence of Manipur minister Kashim Washum in Ukhrul district, causing severe damage to the property. Fortunately, no one was present at the time of the attack, and no casualties have been reported. Local police confirmed the attack and have increased security around the minister’s residence and other sensitive areas.
This incident underscores the volatile security situation in Manipur, where a combination of insurgency and external interference continues to pose significant challenges.
Rising Security Concerns
Following these incidents, security across Manipur has been tightened. Central and state forces remain on high alert as the threat of further attacks looms. The government’s response, including the heightened scrutiny of cross-border movements and insurgent activities, reflects the growing urgency to address the situation.
The arrests and attacks highlight the fragile situation in Manipur, with external influences and local militant groups exacerbating the region’s instability. As the crisis continues, authorities are under pressure to bring the situation under control and ensure the safety of its citizens.
Comments are closed.