IMPHAL/UKHRUL: Security forces have intensified operations around Sunulok Hill under Sagolmang Police Station following the killing of three civilians in a suspected militant attack on firewood collectors on Monday morning, with helicopter surveillance and drone monitoring deployed to track down the attackers.
Manipur Police Additional Director General (ADGP) Lhari Dorjee Lhatoo announced the intensified security measures during a press conference at the Manipur Police Headquarters in Imphal on Monday.
According to the ADGP, unidentified armed militants opened fire at around 9.40 am on a group of 14 Meitei villagers who were cutting and transporting firewood at Sunurok Hill, ahead of Khongbal Tangkhul. Three people were killed in the firing, while three others sustained injuries and were evacuated for medical treatment.
Lhatoo said joint teams comprising Manipur Police, COBRA personnel, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Assam Rifles and the Border Security Force (BSF) were conducting operations in the affected area.
“Sniffer dogs and drones are being used and helicopter surveillance has also commenced,” the ADGP said, adding that further intelligence-based operations were being planned on priority.
He said security forces had received several inputs regarding those involved in the attack and were verifying the information as part of a thorough investigation. He assured that strict legal action would be taken against the perpetrators.
Responding to questions about allegations that a nearby security post had failed to respond effectively during the attack, Lhatoo said investigators were examining all aspects of the incident. He also stated that some personnel had responded and helped evacuate the injured and deceased.
The ADGP said district contingency security plans were in place, with mobile checkposts and preventive measures deployed to maintain law and order. Senior police officials were coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure sustained security operations and prevent further escalation.
RELATED COCOMI Demands Military Crackdown, Abrogation of SoO After 3 Civilians Killed in Khongbal
Appealing for public cooperation, Lhatoo urged people to remain calm, exercise restraint and refrain from circulating unverified information or provocative content on social media.
He also asked the public to report suspicious activities or relevant information to the nearest police station or the Central Control Room.