New Delhi: Two personnel of the Assam Rifles were killed and several others injured in a suspected militant ambush in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Tuesday, highlighting the fragile security situation in the violence affected state.
The attack took place around 1.30 pm in the Nungshang Khong area when suspected militants allegedly opened fire on a convoy of the 40 Assam Rifles as it was moving through the hilly district. The sudden assault prompted security forces to launch an extensive search operation, with additional reinforcements rushed to the area to track down those responsible.
The ambush targeted the convoy while it was travelling through one of Manipur’s most sensitive regions, where difficult terrain and proximity to the Myanmar border have long posed security challenges. Authorities are investigating the incident, while security has been tightened across the district.
Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam condemned the attack, stating that such acts of violence undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the state. The Governor also expressed condolences to the families of the personnel who lost their lives and strongly denounced the assault, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and security.
Manipur has remained tense since ethnic violence erupted between the Meitei and Kuki Zo communities on May 3, 2023. The prolonged conflict has claimed more than 250 lives and displaced thousands of people, while sporadic attacks, targeted violence and armed confrontations have continued despite the deployment of central security forces.
The Assam Rifles and other security agencies have been carrying out regular search operations and area domination exercises across the state to prevent further violence and maintain law and order. The latest ambush underscores the continuing security challenges in the region, particularly in Ukhrul district, which is considered strategically significant due to its rugged terrain and location near insurgent movement corridors along the Myanmar border.
