Imphal, June 26: In a series of search operations conducted by security forces, twelve bunkers have been destroyed in various districts of Manipur, and six mortar shells have been seized, according to police reports.
Over the past 24 hours, the search operations took place in Tamenglong, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Kangpokpi, Kakching, and Churachandpur districts of Manipur, resulting in the destruction of the bunkers, as announced by the police on Sunday night.
While the situation remains tense in Manipur, authorities confirm it is under control, with sporadic incidents occurring, as mentioned in a police statement.
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During the search operations, three 51 mm and six 84 mm mortar shells were discovered in a paddy field in Sahumphai. Additionally, an improvised explosive device (IED) was recovered near Kangvai and S Kotlian villages in Bishnupur district of Manipur. Bomb disposal teams successfully defused the mortar shells and IED on-site.
Since the outbreak of ethnic clashes in Manipur last month, a total of 1,100 arms, 13,702 ammunitions, and 250 bombs have been recovered by security forces.
The state police have also apprehended 135 individuals for offenses such as violating curfew orders, engaging in theft in abandoned houses, and committing arson in Manipur conflict.
Tragically, the ongoing ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur has claimed over 100 lives thus far. The clashes initially erupted on May 3 after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organized in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status.
The population of Manipur consists of approximately 53 percent Meiteis, predominantly residing in the Imphal Valley, while Nagas and Kukis, who make up around 40 percent of the population, predominantly reside in the hill districts.
Efforts to restore peace and stability in Manipur are ongoing, with authorities working diligently to address the root causes of the conflict and prevent further violence.
