A mob of approximately 300-400 people attempted to storm the office of the Superintendent of Police (SP) in Churachandpur, Manipur on Thursday night, the police said.

 The Manipur Police, in a statement to X, revealed that the mob threw stones and engaged in other violent activities in an attempt to breach the SP’s office.

In response, the security forces, including the Rapid Action Force (RAF), used tear gas shells to control the situation, the Manipur Police further said.

The authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

 “Mob numbering approx. 300-400 attempted to storm the office of SP CCP today, pelting stones, etc. The SF [security forces] including the RAF [Rapid Action Force], is responding appropriately by firing tear gas shells to control the situation. Things are under watch,” the Manipur Police posted on X.

 The Manipur government clamped Section 144 of the IPC in the area and temporarily suspended mobile internet in Churachandpur district for 5 days with immediate effect from 1:40 AM of 16-02- 2024.

“There is apprehension that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for the transmission of images, posts, and video messages inciting the passions of the public, which might have serious repercussions for the law and order situation in the State of Manipur. There is an imminent danger of loss of life and/or damage to public/private property, and widespread disturbances to public tranquilly and communal harmony, as a result of inflammatory material and false rumours that might be transmitted/circulated to the public through social media and messaging services on mobile services, SMS services, and dongle services,” the order said.

 Petrol pumps operating in the valley districts have decided to shut business for three days starting from Friday.

 An oil depot manager said the oil pumps will be closed until Sunday as management has become difficult.

 The depots closed down were retail outlet dealers of Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Essar, and Nayara Energy Limited.

 Oil transportation is difficult as no Meitei can travel on national highways; hence, the transporters hired drivers from other states.

 Sales also went down after the crisis started in May last year in the state.

 Prices of petrol and diesel have gone up, and management costs have also gone up, but since 2017, the commission of Rs 3 per litre of petrol and Rs 2 per litre of diesel has remained unchanged.

 Transportation charges have gone up, and many oil pumps were not able to fulfil financial obligations, it was added.

 After the COVID crisis, followed by clashes since May 2023, pressure on oil depots by various organisations has also increased.

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