Manipur: Suspected Kuki militants launch brazen attack at security forces in Moreh; heavy gun battle erupts

Imphal: In a troubling turn of events, suspected Kuki militants believed to be based in Myanmar launched a brazen attack on security forces in Moreh town, Manipur, on January 7. Reports indicate that armed militants targeted security force barracks, deploying explosive devices in the assault. The ensuing clash has led to a heavy gun battle between the assailants and the responding forces, comprising the Assam Rifles, Border Security Forces (BSF) and Manipur Police.

According to police sources, six security personnel, including a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan, sustained injuries in the firefight. The injured security personnel were airlifted and hospitalised in Imphal. However, details regarding casualties on the militants’ side are yet to be confirmed, heightening the tension surrounding the situation.

Moreh has become a hotspot for clashes between security forces and armed militants, with a recent surge in violent incidents. On January 2nd, assailants targeted vehicles carrying police commandos with rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) en-route to the border town. Earlier, on December 30th and January 1st, firing incidents resulted in injuries to five police personnel. In both instances, armed militants initiated attacks, leading to intense gun battles.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh expressed concerns about potential foreign involvement, particularly from the Myanmar side, in these attacks. Singh pointed towards suspicions of the Kuki National Army (KNA-B) playing a role in the violence. As tensions escalate in Myanmar due to conflicts between the Hunta military forces and rebel groups, the suspected Kuki militants’ targeting of Indian territory raises significant security concerns.

The situation in Moreh underscores the complex challenges faced by security forces as they contend with armed incursions. The authorities are grappling with the need to secure the region and investigate potential foreign involvement, amplifying the urgency of addressing these security threats. As the conflict unfolds, close monitoring and strategic measures are imperative to safeguard the well-being of both civilians and security personnel in the region.