Waari Singbul Network

Imphal: In a significant breakthrough, a joint operation by the Indian Army and the Manipur Police successfully defused seven improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in the Imphal East district, preventing what could have been a major casualty in the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Chin-Kuki and Meitei communities.

Acting on crucial intelligence reports, a bomb-disposal team was deployed to the Saichang Itham area, where they meticulously defused all seven IEDs, weighing a total of 33 kilograms. The swift and decisive response by the joint forces averted potential attacks on security personnel and local commuters, according to the defence spokesperson for Manipur, Nagaland, and South Arunachal.

“In a swift and decisive joint operation, the Indian Army in collaboration with the Manipur Police successfully detected and defused seven IEDs in the Saichang Itham area of Imphal East district, averting a major tragedy in the region,” stated the spokesperson. “The recovery has dealt a severe blow to the nefarious designs of inimical elements planning subversive activities.”

The IEDs were found in the Moirangpurel and Itham villages, areas primarily inhabited by farmers and cattle-grazers. The discovery underscores the persistent threat faced by civilians in these conflict zones.

This incident follows another successful operation on Wednesday, where the army and police recovered a significant cache of arms and ammunition in the Imphal East District.

Utilizing patrol dogs and explosive detection dogs due to the challenging terrain, the 72-hour operation led to the seizure of 13 long-range mortars, four Burmese ‘iron rod’ mortars, an IED, and a modified grenade launcher.

Manipur has been marred by ethnic violence for over a year, with clashes between the Meitei community and the Kuki tribes resulting in over 220 deaths and the displacement of nearly 50,000 people. The Meiteis are seeking inclusion under the Scheduled Tribes category, while the Kuki tribes, who share ethnic ties with people in Myanmar’s Chin State and Mizoram, are advocating for a separate administrative region within Manipur, citing discrimination and unequal resource distribution.

The joint operations by the Indian Army and Manipur Police highlight the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in the region. The successful defusal of the IEDs is a testament to the vigilance and coordination of the security forces, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the prolonged conflict.