The conflict in Manipur continues to intensify, with five people killed in a fresh outbreak of violence in Jiribam district on Saturday morning. This deadly incident follows closely on the heels of a series of violent attacks, including a long-range bomb attack by suspected Kuki terrorists in Bishnupur district, highlighting the escalating crisis in the state.
Jiribam Violence: Five Lives Lost
According to police reports, the violence began early on Saturday when terrorists entered an isolated home located around 5 kilometres from the district headquarters of Jiribam and shot a man dead in his sleep. The victim Y Kulabi Singh lived alone in the area, making him an easy target for the armed assailants.
The situation quickly escalated as armed men from warring communities engaged in a fierce exchange of fire in the hills approximately 7 kilometres from the district headquarters. The gunfight resulted in the deaths of four more people, including three hill-based Kuki militants, according to a police officer at the scene. The clashes have heightened fears of further violence in an already volatile region.
Long-Range Bomb Attack by Militants in Bishnupur
This fresh wave of violence comes just days after a significant militant attack in Bishnupur district, where a sophisticated long-range bomb was detonated in Moirang, killing one civilian and injuring five others. The attack targeted the residence of former Chief Minister Koireng on Sendra Road, leaving 70-year-old RK Rabei dead after being struck by bomb splinters. Five other individuals, including a 13-year-old girl, sustained serious injuries in the bombing by suspected Kuki terrorists.
Drone and Rocket Attacks: Militants Use Advanced Technology
In addition to the bomb attack, Manipur has seen a growing use of advanced military tactics by militants, particularly the use of drones to launch rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs). On September 6, Kuki terrorists targeted the village of Tronglaobi in Bishnupur district, firing rockets from over 3 kilometres away, damaging two structures. While no injuries were reported, the attack has left the community in fear, as drones have increasingly become a tool for militant operations in the region.
On September 1, Kuki militants deployed drones in Imphal West’s Koutruk region, launching RPGs that targeted both security forces and civilians. This use of high-tech drones represents a significant escalation in the conflict and has raised concerns among authorities and local residents alike.
Ongoing Tensions and Security Measures
The escalating violence in Manipur has put the state on high alert. Security forces are conducting combing operations in the affected areas to flush out militants and prevent further attacks. The growing use of sophisticated weaponry, including long-range bombs and drone-assisted attacks, poses new challenges for security personnel, who are struggling to maintain peace in the state.
The police have urged the public to remain vigilant but calm amidst these developments. “We are taking every possible step to bring the situation under control. The involvement of high-tech drones and long-range explosives is a serious concern, and we are prepared for all contingencies,” a police spokesperson said.
Manipur’s Crisis: A Growing Humanitarian Issue
As violence continues to grip Manipur, the humanitarian toll is mounting. Civilians are increasingly caught in the crossfire, with many forced to flee their homes. The death of innocent people like RK Rabei and the fresh killings in Jiribam are a stark reminder of the urgent need for peace and reconciliation in the state.
The ongoing conflict between warring communities, particularly in the hill areas, has created deep divisions that are proving difficult to heal. Despite the efforts of security forces, the growing use of advanced military tactics by militants has complicated the situation, making the road to peace even more challenging.
