Mob attacks Assam Rifles camp in Manipur
An unruly mob targeted an Assam Rifles camp in Manipur’s Senapati town on the night of 14-15 July, resorting to stone-pelting, arson, and vandalism, defence officials said on Wednesday.
The violence erupted following an area domination patrol and search operation launched by the Assam Rifles. The operation was initiated based on credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of armed cadres in the Makuilongdi area, located about two kilometres west of a designated NSCN (IM) camp at Oklong.
Intelligence reports and social media updates had indicated that armed cadres were moving outside their designated camps, carrying weapons and wearing uniforms in blatant violation of the established Ceasefire Ground Rules. The Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG) was formally apprised of the security concerns and rule violations.
During the security operation, Assam Rifles columns approaching Makuilongdi and Oklong villages were obstructed by local residents, including women. Maintaining maximum restraint, the security personnel held discussions with local representatives, assuring them that the operation was aimed solely at maintaining peace and that forces would not enter any village without official consent.
However, tensions escalated by 9:00 pm as a large crowd gathered in Senapati town and began marching towards the Assam Rifles camp. Despite the withdrawal of the patrolling columns, the violent mob reached the camp around 9:30 pm, pelting stones, damaging property, and attempting arson.
Security forces, in coordination with the Manipur Police, deployed minimal force, firing blank rounds and tear-gas grenades to disperse the crowd and prevent further escalation. Senapati Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were immediately deployed to restore law and order.
While retreating, sections of the mob vandalised security vehicles, setting a light vehicle ablaze and overturning two trucks. A civilian car was also reportedly burnt during the ruckus.
Coordinated efforts by the security forces, the State police, and the CRPF brought the situation under control, fully dispersing the crowd by midnight.
Officials confirmed that the situation in Senapati is currently peaceful and under control, with no injuries or casualties reported on either side. Security forces and district authorities have initiated dialogues with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to maintain communal harmony and address local concerns.
