Assam Rifles Convoy Attack in Manipur Leaves Two Soldiers Dead
Two personnel of the Assam Rifles were killed after militants targeted a security convoy in Manipur's Ukhrul district, escalating security concerns in the state's border region amid continuing ethnic tensions. The attack took place on National Highway 202 when a convoy of the 40th Assam Rifles came under sudden assault near Noungshang Kong village within the jurisdiction of Ukhrul Police Station.
According to the information available, the militants launched a surprise attack on the convoy while it was travelling through the area. Warrant Officer Balwant Singh and Havildar C.M. Singh, who was serving as the driver of the vehicle, were killed in the attack.
The incident has prompted a large-scale security response, with additional forces deployed across the affected region and extensive search operations launched to track down those responsible.
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Attack targets Assam Rifles convoy
The ambush occurred near Noungshang Kong village in Ukhrul district, a sensitive area that has witnessed heightened tensions in recent weeks. Militants targeted vehicles belonging to the 40th Assam Rifles as they were moving along National Highway 202.
Security agencies immediately cordoned off the area after the attack and began combing operations in the surrounding forested terrain. Special forces have taken control of the area as part of efforts to locate the attackers and prevent further incidents.
Authorities have not announced any arrests in connection with the attack.
Ethnic tensions continue in border region
The latest violence comes against the backdrop of ongoing tensions between Kuki and Naga communities in the Ukhrul border region.
According to the source information, the current phase of unrest began after a dispute on February 7 escalated into repeated clashes between members of the two communities. Since then, nearly 25 people have reportedly lost their lives in multiple incidents linked to the conflict.
Security agencies suspect the convoy may have been deliberately targeted using an improvised explosive device (IED) as part of a planned attack, although investigations are continuing.
The attack has renewed concerns over law and order in the region, where security forces remain on heightened alert.
Social media allegations follow the incident
The attack has also intensified exchanges on social media between representatives of the two communities.
Kuki organisations have alleged that security agencies have failed to act against suspected armed groups said to be operating in border villages including Seenakeithal, Sarekhong and Thoi.
The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM), however, rejected those allegations. In a statement, the organisation said it had no involvement in the attack and claimed that splinter militant groups that had broken away from it were responsible for such acts of violence.
The NSCN-IM further stated that it remained committed to the ongoing peace talks with the Central Government and had no role in activities aimed at disrupting peace in the region.
Chief Minister and Governor condemn attack
Manipur Chief Minister Khemchand Yumnam strongly condemned the attack, describing it as an act of terrorism against security personnel. He said the sacrifice of the soldiers would not be forgotten and assured that those responsible for attempting to destabilise the state would be identified and dealt with firmly.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla also expressed condolences to the families of the two personnel killed in the attack. He condemned the violence and directed that additional security forces be deployed in vulnerable border areas to strengthen security arrangements.
The investigation into the attack is continuing as security agencies intensify search operations across the affected area.