Imphal, December 17: In an attack undertaken by cadres of MPA 293 Bn on two vehicles escorting a JCB towards Old Somtal at about 3.45 pm today, seven security personnel including an officer were killed while more than three were injured, claimed UNLF through a press release issued by its senior publicity officer Ksh Yoiheiba.

Yesterday too, security forces suffered several casualties at the hands of MPA 293 Bn at Old Somtal.

Under Operation Samtal, security forces advanced up to Old Somtal on November 30.After making a retreat from there some days back, the security forces again approached the area last morning.

Selecting sites where the security forces might be congregating amongst themselves, MPA cadres launched an assault at about 4.30 pm yesterday.

After engaging the security forces for about half an hour, the MPA cadres retreated to more suitable positions, conveyed Yoiheiba.

Yet, sounds of firing weapons by security forces till late in the night could be heard.

Even though the exact figure of the casualties could not be ascertained, the security forces should have suffered death of 7/8 personnel and greater number of injuries, contended the UNLF.

The dead and injured security personnel were retrieved using a helicopter painted with Red Cross mark which landed at Tuitung.

This was the first time that a helicopter painted with Red Cross mark was used in any battle between security forces and the MPA, noted Yoiheiba.

In the ongoing battle in Dingpi and Khengjoi range, casualties on the part of security forces is increasing and will go on increasing day by day, observed the banned outfit.

Under such circumstances, the security forces have been greatly demoralised, it alleged.

Moreover, in the ongoing Operation Samtal, security forces are using two unmanned spy planes which are put into service mostly during night.

Making frequent sorties over thick forest in the hills and near the international border, these planes are reconnoitring MPA positions, disclosed Yoiheiba.

In addition, in their effort to disrupt communication among MPA cadres, the security forces are using several devices capable of jamming MPA's radio frequency.

However, the strategy is unable to affect the communication network of MPA cadres as they have access to means fit for use in such circumstances, claimed Yoiheiba.

On the other hand, reiterating that the UNLF/MPA has nothing to do with the bomb blast at Pourabi yesterday which killed seven and injured more than 20, the outfit while condoling the families of the deceased, assured all possible assistance to the bereaved families.