Mob attacks Assam Rifles camp in Senapati town of Manipur
IMPHAL: An irate mob resorted to stone pelting, arson and vandalism in an Assam Rifles camp in Senapati town in Manipur on the intervening night of July 14-15.
Security sources informed that at around 9 pm last night of a large crowd gathering in the Senapati town and preparing to march towards the Assam Rifles Camp. A large mob reached the camp at around 9:30 pm, pelting stones, damaging property and attempting acts of arson.
"Upholding the utmost professionalism, the minimum force was employed to disperse the violent crowd and prevent further escalation, in coordination with Manipur Police, by firing blank rounds and tear-gas grenades, security officials said.
The Senapati Police and CRPF were immediately deployed to assist in restoring law and order.
Later, while retreating, a section of the mob vandalised and damaged Assam Rifles vehicles. One light vehicle was set ablaze, while two trucks were overturned and damaged.
A private car was also reportedly burnt during the violence.
Through the coordinated efforts of the Security Forces, Manipur Police and CRPF personnel, the situation was brought under control and the crowd fully dispersed by midnight.
Earlier on Tuesday, based on credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of armed cadres in the general area of Makuilongdi, approximately 2 Kms west of the designated NSCN (IM) camp at Oklong, an area domination patrol and search operation was launched by the Assam Rifles.
The intelligence reports and the social media posts indicated the presence of armed cadres moving outside designated camps, carrying weapons and wearing uniforms, in apparent violation of established Ceasefire Ground Rules.
Simultaneously, the Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG) was formally informed regarding the reported violations highlighting the security concerns.
During the course of the operation, the Assam Rifles columns approaching Makuilongdi and Oklong villages were obstructed by residents, involving women. The columns exercised maximum restraint and communicated with the local representatives, assuring that the operations were aimed solely at ensuring security and maintaining peace in the area and that the columns would not enter any village without the consent of the authorities
However, the mob attacked the Assam Rifles camp later in the night even after withdrawal of Assam Rifles columns from those two villages.
The situation in Senapati is presently peaceful and under control. No injuries or casualties were sustained by the local population or security force personnel, officials told journalists.
Efforts to address concerns and maintain communal harmony have been undertaken with Civil Society Organisations and District Authorities.
Security Forces remain committed to maintaining peace, ensuring the safety of all citizens and upholding the rule of law. They continue to exercise restraint and professionalism while carrying out their mandate to safeguard the security and stability of the region.
Image: Screen grab.