Over 200 Militants Storm Police Officer’s Residence in Manipur, Abduct and Vandalize
Imphal, 28th February 2024: Over 200 militants stormed the residence of a senior police officer in Manipur, vandalized the property, fired gunshots, and abducted him and his guards before being rescued later, according to Manipur Police. The incident occurred in Imphal East district, and the abducted individuals were admitted to Raj Medicity for medical treatment.
Although the police did not specify the group responsible for the abduction, sources suggest that the radical Meitei outfit Arambai Tenggol may have been involved. Additional security forces were deployed after the militants attacked Moirangthem Amit Singh’s residence, resulting in injuries to two individuals during the police action.
The motive behind the officer’s abduction was not mentioned in the police statement. However, it is reported that the abduction occurred after some members of Arambai Tenggol were detained earlier in the day for brandishing weapons and stealing vehicles in the city. Protests were staged by members of the group and other women’s groups outside the Imphal police headquarters, later extending to the residence of Singh.
The officer was surrounded by protesters upon returning home, and militants took advantage of the situation, overpowering police personnel and abducting the officer. Kuki groups have accused Arambai Tenggol of orchestrating violence against tribals in Manipur since ethnic violence erupted in the state in May of the previous year. The group has faced allegations of murder, attacks on security forces, extortion, and arson, among others.
Arambai Tenggol recently called upon lawmakers and Meitei politicians to take an oath to protect “Manipur’s integrity,” and there have been reported assaults on legislators who did not support the state government. Ethnic violence in Manipur has resulted in over 200 deaths and nearly 50,000 people displaced since May of the previous year, with underground militant groups regaining support amid the escalating violence.
