drones-sighted-again-in-manipur-s-imphal-people-fear-attack

Residents in the outskirts of Bishnupur and Imphal East districts of Manipur switched off their lights on Friday night after several drones were spotted, officials have reported.

 

The sighting has intensified fears among locals, who are on edge following recent drone attacks by militants.

 

Drones were used earlier this week to drop bombs in two locations in Imphal West, resulting in the deaths of two people and injuries to several others.

 

The latest sightings occurred in Narainsena and Nambol Kamong in Bishnupur and in Pukhao, Dolaithabi, and Shantipur in Imphal East, causing panic-stricken villagers to plunge their homes into darkness.

 

Security forces have heightened their vigilance in these peripheral areas, closely watching for any large gatherings, a senior official said. The night sky in Bishnupur was lit up by several illumination rounds, leading to more confusion and alarm.

 

It remains uncertain whether these were fired by security personnel or others.

 

The first use of drones in Manipur as a weapon was noted on 1 September in Koutruk village, Imphal West.

 

The next day, another drone attack occurred in Senjam Chirang, about three kilometres away, injuring three people. The state remains on high alert.