21 bunkers razed as Manipur forces intensify hunt after BSF jawan's killing
Massive security grid activated with 109 checkpoints set up across hill & valley districts to monitor movement
Security forces destroying bunkers at Sikibung. (Photo:@manipur_police/X)
Imphal, Apr 12: Security forces on Sunday continued joint combing operations for the third consecutive day to track down militants following the killing of a BSF constable in Manipur’s Ukhrul district.
During the ongoing operations, security personnel destroyed 21 illegally constructed bunkers, officials said.
According to officials, 14 bunkers were demolished at Sikibung village and seven more at Mongkot Chepu village under Litan Police Station in the mountainous district.
The bunkers had allegedly been set up by militant outfits to launch attacks on security forces and civilians.
A police official in Imphal said central and state security forces have intensified search operations across Ukhrul and adjoining districts to apprehend those responsible for the killing of Border Security Force (BSF) constable Mithun Mandal.
The constable was attacked on Friday while performing Road Opening Party (ROP) duty in the violence-affected district along with other BSF personnel.
After being paid solemn homage, his mortal remains were sent to his ancestral home in West Bengal on Saturday.
In a separate operation, arms and explosives were recovered from the tri-junction areas of Maojang, Libung, Gomnom and T Khonunjang in Tengnoupal district, which borders Myanmar.
The seized items included two 9mm pistols with magazines, 13 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), two combat uniforms, a pair of jungle shoes and a backpack. All 13 IEDs were safely destroyed on the spot.
Meanwhile, search operations and area domination exercises are ongoing in fringe, mixed-population and other vulnerable areas across multiple districts.
To strengthen surveillance and restrict the movement of unlawful elements, a total of 109 nakas (checkpoints) have been set up across both valley and hill districts.
Security forces are also escorting vehicles, including trucks carrying essential commodities, along the Imphal–Jiribam National Highway (NH-37), with tight convoy protection in place along sensitive stretches.
Manipur Police have urged the public to refrain from believing rumours and to remain cautious about fake videos circulating on social media.
“The authenticity of any circulated videos or audio clips should be verified with the Central Control Room. Uploading or sharing unverified or misleading content on social media will invite legal action,” the police said.
IANS