IMPHAL, July 4 (NNN): A youth was killed and several others injured after security forces rained tear gas shells and bullets toward a mob who was storming the battalion headquarters of 3rd IRB in Thoubal district of Manipur on Tuesday.
The irate mob also set afire at least three vehicles of the security forces as the death of the youth prompted widespread protests across the district including blocking of Imphal-Moreh section of NH-102.
The incident occurred around 10.30 am when a large number of people from Khangabok, Heirok and adjoining areas of Thoubal district rose up and stormed the battalion headquarters at Wangbal where troops of BSF were also stationed.
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The crowd demanded return of the arms and ammunition they had surrendered or recovered by the security forces in the wake of “relentless attacks by suspected militants” in the villages in the periphery of the valley district.
They alleged that the security forces failed to protect the civilians despite repeated assurances from the government and demanded arms and ammunition to defend themselves from the attackers.
With tensions running high after the people refused to leave the places even as officials of the 3rd IRB tried their best to convince them, additional police force from Thoubal district headquarters rushed to the area.
In their bid to scare away the people, the security forces resorted to firing tear gas shells and mock bombs. They also opened fire several rounds of guns, injuring at least four with bullets.
Among them, one identified as Amujam Ronaldo (27) of Heirok Part-III who was allegedly hit by a bullet on his head died at Thoubal district hospital where he was rushed along with the three others.
The incident sparked outrage among the people across the district. A large number of people came out on the streets and blocked NH-102.
They also disturbed the movement of security forces. Reports said that three vehicles of a convoy of Assam Rifles trying to pass through amid the blockade were set afire by the protesters.
A late report said that a house belonging to an IRB personnel was also torched by the irate mob.
The situation remained grim in Thoubal and parts of Kakching, the report added.
