Two soldiers from the Assam Rifles lost their lives in an ambush by unidentified gunmen on the outskirts of Imphal, Manipur, on Friday evening. The tragic incident unfolded in the Nambol Sabal Leikai area, approximately eight kilometers from Imphal airport, as the military personnel were traveling in a 407 Tata truck from Imphal to Bishnupur.
The attackers, equipped with heavy arms, opened fire on the vehicle, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and leaving several others injured. Eyewitness reports and visuals from the scene indicated one officer sustained severe injuries, prompting immediate action from security forces to secure the perimeter.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla condemned the violent act, expressing profound sorrow over the fatalities and extending his condolences to the affected families. He reassured the public that such acts of violence would be countered with a strong will to restore peace and stability in the region, while also wishing a swift recovery for those injured.
The location of the ambush is part of a route commonly used between Imphal and Churachandpur, a region that has seen its share of militant activities in the past. Notably, a previous deadly attack in November 2021 claimed the lives of Colonel Viplav Tripathi of the Assam Rifles, his wife, son, and three members of a Quick Reaction Team in Churachandpur.
While the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) remains implemented across Manipur, the Bishnupur district, where Nambol is situated, falls outside its jurisdiction. Reports from the Ministry of Home Affairs reveal that nine banned Meitei terrorist groups are active in the state, accountable for numerous assaults on security forces.
In light of this ambush, security measures in the area have been heightened, with additional reinforcements dispatched to locate and apprehend the assailants. The events of the evening have once again highlighted the ongoing challenges faced in maintaining peace and security in the region.
