Manipur: Two Assam Rifles Personnel Killed in Militant Ambush on Convoy in Ukhrul
Security forces launch search operations after armed attackers target a 40 Assam Rifles convoy on National Highway-202; no group has claimed responsibility.
UKHRUL- Two personnel of the 40th Assam Rifles were killed and around eight others injured when armed miscreants ambushed their convoy near Nungshangkong along National Highway-202 in Ukhrul district on Monday afternoon.
According to reports, the incident occurred around 1:30 PM when a convoy of the 40 Assam Rifles was moving from its camp , Shangshak Battalion headquarters towards a police station or returning from an operational movement. IEDs detonated, followed by heavy gunfire from multiple directions, triggering a fierce gun battle that lasted nearly an hour. The deceased have been identified as Warrant Officer Balwant Singh and Havildar C.M. Singh (reportedly the driver of the vehicle). The injured were evacuated for medical treatment.
Security forces have launched search and cordon operations in the area to track down the perpetrators. No group has officially claimed responsibility so far, though initial attributions in some reports pointed to militants, with NSCN-IM later issuing a strong denial.
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Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh strongly condemned the “heinous and cowardly militant ambush.” In a statement on X, he expressed deepest condolences to the bereaved families, saying their “supreme sacrifice will never be forgotten.” He added that such acts of terror will not be tolerated and affirmed that the Government of Manipur is committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice while upholding peace, security, and the rule of law.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla expressed deep sadness over the loss and strongly condemned the dastardly act of violence. He stated that such attacks have no place in society and cannot weaken the collective resolve to uphold peace and security. The Governor extended heartfelt condolences to the families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
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Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam also condemned the attack, noting that it undermines ongoing efforts to restore normalcy in the violence-hit state. He expressed confidence that security forces would take all necessary measures to apprehend those responsible and ensure strict action under the law.
The NSCN-IM issued a press statement categorically denying any involvement in the ambush and clarifying that it had no connection with or knowledge of the incident. The group also refuted links to any alleged “Eastern Flank” faction.
Broader reactions from political parties, civil society groups, and NGOs in the region have echoed strong condemnation of the violence, calling for swift investigations and steps to prevent further escalation in the sensitive hill district.
Many highlighted the need for sustained dialogue and strengthened security measures amid Manipur’s ongoing challenges with militancy and ethnic tensions.
This incident comes against the backdrop of persistent security concerns in parts of Manipur. Authorities have urged locals to remain vigilant while operations continue. Further details on the investigation are awaited.
