Fresh Fears in Manipur as Explosives Are Found After Deadly Torbung Attack

Security forces recovered 16 abandoned improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during a search operation at Lungdeiphai Leinom village junction in the Kangvai area of Churachandpur district. The explosives were subsequently neutralised by a bomb disposal squad, officials confirmed. The recovery highlights ongoing security concerns in the ethnically sensitive region, coming just two days after an attack in the adjacent Bishnupur district.

The operation followed reports of indiscriminate firing and bombings on Tuesday at Torbung Sabal Mamang Leikai in Bishnupur, allegedly carried out by a suspected armed Kuki group. That incident occurred shortly after a high-level security review meeting in Churachandpur chaired by Manipur Director General of Police Rajiv Singh. Earlier recoveries from the same day included one long-range improvised Pumpi (a country-made bomb launcher), four medium-range Pumpis, one barrel-blasted medium-range Pumpi, a 3 kg IED, a single-barrel firearm, and 17 empty cases of various calibres.

No casualties were reported from the latest recovery operation, but the incidents underscore persistent tensions along the border areas between Churachandpur and Bishnupur districts. Ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities has plagued Manipur since May 2023, resulting in over 250 deaths and widespread displacement.

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In response, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) issued a statement emphasising community restraint and adherence to buffer zone arrangements to avoid further violence. Signed by its information and publicity secretary, Ginza Vualzong, the release described the crisis as a political issue rooted in alleged ethnic cleansing, asserting that lasting peace requires a political solution rather than mere law-and-order measures.

Authorities continue intensified patrols and search operations in vulnerable areas to prevent escalation. The situation remains volatile, with calls from various quarters for dialogue and central intervention to address underlying grievances.

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