A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy came under attack from unidentified armed assailants along National Highway-2 in Manipur’s Imphal West district on Thursday, triggering a security operation in the area. No casualties were reported among the personnel travelling in the convoy.
The incident took place when the CRPF vehicles were moving along NH-2, the strategically important highway connecting Imphal with Dimapur in Nagaland. The attackers reportedly opened fire at the convoy before fleeing the area. Security personnel responded immediately and subsequently launched a search operation to locate those responsible.
Security tightened after firing
Additional forces were deployed following the incident and the surrounding areas were searched for the attackers. Authorities were also examining the circumstances of the assault, including whether the convoy had been specifically targeted and which group could have been responsible.
The attack comes amid continuing security concerns in Manipur, where Central Armed Police Forces, the Assam Rifles and state police remain deployed in large numbers following prolonged ethnic violence and periodic armed confrontations.
NH-2 is particularly important for Manipur because it serves as one of the state’s principal road links with the rest of the country. The highway has repeatedly been affected by blockades and security disturbances during periods of unrest.
Fresh concern over security situation
Thursday’s incident comes weeks after a CRPF personnel was injured in firing in Senapati district amid violence in areas adjoining Kangpokpi. Houses were also burnt or damaged during that episode, while NH-2 was blocked, disrupting movement between Manipur and Nagaland.
Security agencies have continued operations across vulnerable areas of the state to prevent fresh violence, recover weapons and maintain access along important highways. The Assam Rifles has also stepped up coordination with the civil administration, police and intelligence agencies in the hill districts as authorities seek to prevent local incidents from triggering wider unrest.
No organisation had immediately claimed responsibility for Thursday’s attack. Security forces were continuing searches in and around the area while investigators sought to establish the identity and motive of the assailants.