Fresh Tensions Grip Manipur After Firing During Security Operation in Noney

IMPHAL/NONEY: A security operation in Manipur’s Noney district on July 29 resulted in the death of a Naga Village Guard (NVG) member and injuries to several others, triggering protests, an indefinite shutdown call by tribal organisations and renewed tensions in the region.

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According to reports, the incident occurred at around 6:30 a.m. near Bitiang (Laphok) village under Khoupum Police Station. Security personnel, including members of the 207 CoBRA Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), were conducting an operation targeting an alleged illegal Naga Volunteer Group training camp located in a forested area.

Officials said the operation turned into an exchange of fire after armed village volunteers allegedly opened fire on the approaching security personnel. The ensuing gunfight resulted in casualties on both sides. Authorities have stated that investigations into the incident are ongoing.

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The deceased has been identified as Lanbi Riamei, also reported in some accounts as Lanbimei Riamei, a Naga Village Guard member from Longmai Bazar. His age has been reported as either 22 or 25 years in different accounts. His body was later taken to his residence, where family members and local residents paid their respects.

Reports indicate that three to five people were injured during the incident. Those injured reportedly include one or two additional Naga Village Guard members and two CoBRA personnel, who sustained splinter injuries. Officials have not yet released a consolidated statement confirming the final casualty figures.

The incident has heightened tensions across Naga-inhabited areas of Noney district. Local residents, including groups of women, reportedly gathered at the scene to prevent further advances by security forces following the firing.

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The Working Committee of the Joint Tribes Council (JTC-Manipur) strongly condemned the operation, alleging that personnel from the CoBRA Battalion acted in coordination with members of the Zeliangrong United Front–Jenchui (ZUF-J). The organisation described the operation as an armed assault on village volunteers and demanded government intervention.

Following the incident, the Joint Tribes Council announced an immediate and indefinite shutdown across Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme (Zeliangrong) areas beginning July 29. The shutdown is expected to affect movement on National Highways, railway services and central infrastructure projects, while essential services have been exempted.

The Naga Village Guard Eastern Command and several other tribal organisations also condemned the operation, stating that the village guards were protecting local communities. They have called for an impartial inquiry and appropriate action against those responsible.

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Security officials, however, maintained that the operation was conducted against an alleged illegal training camp and that the exchange of fire began after security personnel came under attack. Authorities have said further investigations are underway to establish the complete sequence of events.

As of the latest reports, no detailed public statement had been issued by the Manipur state government or senior ministers regarding the incident. However, security agencies continue to monitor the situation amid the state’s ongoing ethnic tensions.

The latest incident underscores the fragile security situation in Manipur, where authorities have appealed for calm while maintaining heightened security deployments in sensitive areas. Further details are expected as official investigations progress.