Manipur Chief Minister's Security Team Ambushed By Suspected Insurgents

Ahead of the much-anticipated visit of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh to the violence-hit Jiribam district later today, an advance security team was ambushed by suspected insurgents.

Multiple gunshots were fired at the vehicles of the security forces, who retaliated, police said, adding, that the shootout is still on near Kotlen village along a stretch of National Highway-53.

At least two security personnel have been injured in the attack.

The ambush comes amidst a backdrop of heightened violence in the region. The recent surge in violence began on June 6, after the discovery of the body of Soibam Saratkumar Singh, a 59-year-old Meitei farmer who had been missing for weeks. The discovery of Singh's body ignited a wave of outrage among residents, prompting urgent calls for enhanced security measures and the right to arm themselves for protection.