Delhi's assistance sought : DGP on drone attacks
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 03 2024: Close on the heels of the formation of a high-level committee to counter drone threats by Kuki militants, DGP Rajiv Singh on Tuesday disclosed that the State has requested the expertise of Delhi-based agencies, including the NSG, to address the emerging security challenge posed by drone attacks.

In the aftermath of the recent drone attacks along Kangchup hill stretches including Kadangband, Koutruk, and Senjam Chirang in Imphal West by Kuki militants on Sunday and Monday killing a 31 old mother, injuring her daughter and many others including personnel of State forces, the DGP visited the sites of these attacks to assess the situation today.

Delhi's assistance sought : DGP on drone attacks

The DGP who was accompanied by the Imphal West SP and the Commandant of 2nd Manipur Rifles and other police officers also interacted with the villagers and noted their grievances.

Addressing the media in Kadangband Part-II, the DGP revealed that the Manipur Government has sought assistance from Delhi.

"Violence has escalated and the Police Department is taking the matter seriously," the DGP stated, noting that extensive search operations are being conducted at three-four sites where the drone attacks occurred.

He described the drone attacks as a "new phenomenon" that requires urgent attention and assured that the perpetrators will not be spared.

Acknowledging the gravity of the security concerns, the DGP highlighted that, apart from Assam Rifles, 198 companies of Central forces have been already deployed in the strife-torn State.

However, he emphasised that more forces are needed, as "only State forces cannot handle the ongoing crisis" .

He further warned that any forces failing to perform their duties effectively would be removed from their positions.

The Manipur police chief reaffirmed the commitment to restoring peace and security in the region, stating, "We are taking all necessary steps to ensure safety and prevent further escalation of violence" .

Reacting to the situation, the villagers have over the response of the Central forces, accusing them of inaction during the attacks.

They said that the crisis between the two communities was at first limited to small firearms but now the Kuki militants have started using military-grade equipment and drone bombing which is considered a war crime.

They urged the State Government to deploy more State forces in the affected areas stating that the Central forces' current approach is inadequate for addressing the crisis.

The villagers also stressed the need for effective counter measures to neutralise drone threats such as drone jammers and adequate deployment of State forces in the conflict zone, to safeguard the Meetei community from future threats.

It is reported that on Monday a drone was recovered from Kharam Vaiphei in Kangpokpi district, a Kuki-dominated area by Manipur Police.

On the other hand, an unexploded bomb dropped by Kuki militants via drone on Monday was discovered near the Manipur Rifles bunker at Kadangband Part II .

The bomb was found submerged in the ground.

Villagers suggested there could be more unexploded bombs in the area, as only two out of several were detonated.

It is said that efforts were underway to locate the remaining bombs and defuse the submerged one but no bomb squad has arrived at the scene till the time of filing this report.