Security forces engaged in a late-night gunfight with suspected militants in Manipur’s Bishnupur district on Wednesday, officials said. The exchange of fire, which last for about half an hour, began after “suspected armed Kuki militants opened fire” towards an Indian Army post in Phougakchao Awang Leikai.
The attack took place at “approximately 11.40 pm on Wednesday night, prompting an immediate response from personnel on the ground. “The Indian Army and the Central Reserve Police Force (58th Battalion), deployed in the area, responded swiftly by returning fire towards the source,” a police statement said, adding that the exchange continued for “approximately 30 minutes”. No immediate reports of casualties were received.
Following the gunfight, a joint search operation was launched involving the Army, CRPF, state police and the Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB). Security forces have since been combing the area where the firing occurred, along with adjoining hill regions. Officials said that the situation was closely being monitors with forces maintaining a presence in the surrounding areas. “The situation is being closely monitored, and security forces will continue operations in the surrounding hill areas,” the statement added. Authorities have also urged residents to avoid spreading unverified information, stressing the need for calm as operations continue
