Attack by Suspected Kuki Insurgents in Manipur Results in Death of 2 Paramilitary Soldiers

The attack occurred at a camp of the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) in Naranseina village, 45 km from the state capital Imphal. Suspected Kuki insurgents approached from the nearby hills, opening fire on the camp using a handmade ‘pumpy gun’ artillery.

This attack comes shortly before the first anniversary of the Manipur crisis, and there is concern that similar incidents may increase in the near future. During the attack, two soldiers from the CRPF’s 128 Battalion were killed in action, identified as sub-inspector N Sarkar and head constable Arup Saini.

Additionally, two others were injured: inspector Jadav Das and constable Aftab Das. The attack lasted from midnight to 2:15 am, with militants firing indiscriminately and hurling bombs at the camp.

Following the attack, a massive combing operation is underway to track down the insurgents. It’s important to note that this incident takes place in a region that has seen recent conflicts between Meitei and Kuki-Zo armed groups.

Both sides consider themselves “village defence volunteers”, leading to controversial actions in the area. The valley is mainly inhabited by the Meitei community, while the hills are dominated by the Kuki-Zo tribes.