In a fierce gunbattle between suspected Kuki militants and security forces in Manipur’s Jiribam district, at least 11 insurgents were killed today, sources reported.
Several members of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were injured in the attack.
The encounter reportedly began when the militants launched a coordinated assault on a police station in Borobekra, located in the border district, which also houses a relief camp for displaced persons.
The militants, believed to be from the Kuki insurgent group, targeted the police station from two directions.
Sources suggest that the attackers may have been attempting to target the nearby relief camp as well. This police station has been a frequent target of attacks in recent months.
Following the assault on the police station, the suspected militants spread out towards the settlement of Jakurador Karong, about one kilometre from the station, where they set several houses on fire.
During this, they engaged in a gunfight with the CRPF forces who had quickly mobilised to the scene.
The situation in Jiribam remains tense, with the district having witnessed a recent surge in violence.
Tensions were further aggravated on Saturday last week when a woman from the Hmar tribe was killed by suspected Meitei militants, with allegations that she had been raped before being murdered.
A day later, a Meitei woman was shot dead by suspected Kuki insurgents while working in a paddy field.
On Thursday, suspected Kuki militants had also opened fire on farmers in Imphal East, leaving one injured.
The violence has raised concerns, particularly among farmers, who are now reluctant to return to their fields during the ongoing harvest season.
The CRPF, one of the largest Central Armed Police Forces in India, is known for its expertise in counter-insurgency operations, including its significant role in anti-Maoist campaigns across several states.
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