Imphal: At least 18 civilians, including five women, were injured and a mob set fire to two security force vehicles in Manipur’s Bishnupur district on Tuesday, officials said.
The mob violence erupted following the seizure of a large quantity of drugs from a suspected drug peddler at the Imphal airport.
A senior police official stated that, acting on credible intelligence, a joint operation by the Central Industrial Security Force and Airport Police was carried out at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal, leading to the arrest of a suspected drug peddler, identified as Mohammad Sabir Ahamed, a resident of Moirang sub-division in Bishnupur district.
Following a thorough examination of Ahamed’s checked-in baggage, approximately 6.74 kg (including container weight) of suspected brown sugar, concealed inside six containers, was detected and seized. The accused, along with the seized contraband, was handed over to Singjamei Police Station, where a case has been registered for further investigation.
During preliminary interrogation, the accused revealed information about a concealed cache of arms and ammunition in the Kwakta area of Bishnupur district. Acting on this input, security forces moved towards the location.
However, while en route near Thinungei in Bishnupur district, the security team’s movement was obstructed by local residents due to the spread of mischievous, unverified rumours about the identity and purpose of the personnel.
A mob soon gathered and blocked the security vehicles. The situation escalated when some members of the crowd turned violent, damaging and setting ablaze two vehicles associated with the security personnel. There were also attempts to detain the personnel, further aggravating the situation.
Additional forces were immediately rushed to the area. According to the police official, the crowd was dispersed using the minimum necessary force, including tear gas, to restore law and order.
During the incident, 18 civilians, including five women, sustained injuries, and necessary medical assistance was provided.
In connection with the mob violence, four individuals have been arrested, and efforts are ongoing to identify others involved in arson, unlawful assembly, and obstruction of security forces. The investigation is currently in progress.
To control the situation, a flag march was subsequently conducted by central and state forces in the area to maintain law and order.
Police have strongly appealed to the public not to spread rumours or misinformation and to cooperate with law enforcement agencies. Strict action will be taken against individuals involved in spreading rumours, arson, and violence, the official added.
(IANS)
