Guwahati: Kuki militants are allegedly trying to obtain high-end technology in the trouble-hit state of Manipur. But why these militant groups are sourcing technology like drone is a matter of serious security concern and a matter of deep investigation. In a significant development, Assam Special Task Force (STF) arrested a man attempting to transport high-end drone batteries into Manipur, raising serious security concerns in the troubled state. The arrest highlights the potential use of advanced technology by Kuki militant groups in Manipur, which is currently plagued by ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities.
The arrested individual, Khaigoulen Kipgen, 27, was intercepted by STF operatives at a toll gate in Sonapur on National Highway 27, approximately 30 km from Guwahati. Kipgen, a resident of Gamngai village in Manipur’s Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi district, was found carrying ten high-end drone batteries. The police termed the arrest a “major breakthrough” in their efforts to curb militant activities in the region.
The use of military-grade, beyond-line-of-sight drones by civilians is rare and raises significant security concerns. Assam police are investigating whether armed groups in Manipur are attempting to leverage such technology amidst the ongoing ethnic conflict. The arrest follows a tip-off from a central intelligence agency, which had warned of possible sabotage activities involving drones.
In contrast, a filmmakers’ association representing the Kuki tribes in Manipur has refuted the allegations. They claimed that the arrested person is a renowned member of their association, and had purchased the drone batteries solely for professional use in filmmaking. This contention adds a layer of complexity to the investigation, underscoring the need for thorough scrutiny to ascertain the true intent behind the acquisition of these drone batteries.
The incident underscores the broader implications of advanced technology falling into the hands of militant groups. The potential for misuse of drones for surveillance or sabotage activities could escalate the already tense situation in Manipur. Law enforcement agencies are stepping up their intelligence networks and monitoring to prevent such threats. Authorities are continuing their investigations to uncover the full extent of the potential threat posed by the acquisition of drone technology by militant groups in Manipur. The Assam STF and other security agencies remain vigilant, aiming to prevent any escalation of violence or sabotage activities in the region. It should me mentioned that last week Kuki militants attacked several Meitei dominated villages in Jiribam district of Manipur bordering Assam. Several villages were set ablaze by militants and security forces had to evacuate over 400 Meitei villagers from the affected villages. More than 400 Meitei people are taking shelter in Cachar district of Assam. Kuki Militants attacked several police stations and an advance security team of CM N Biren Singh in Jiribam where one security personal was critically injured.
