Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh on Friday strongly condemned the ambush on a convoy carrying essential commodities along National Highway-202 in Ukhrul district, which resulted in the death of a truck driver and injuries to a police constable.
The attack took place between Leingangching and TM Kasom under the jurisdiction of Litan Police Station when suspected militants allegedly opened fire on vehicles transporting Food Corporation of India (FCI) rice along the Imphal–Ukhrul road.
According to official reports, the convoy was carrying essential supplies to the hill district when it came under attack. The truck driver, who was reportedly a resident of West Bengal, was killed during the firing. A police constable accompanying the convoy also sustained bullet injuries.
Expressing grief over the driver’s death, the Chief Minister extended his condolences to the bereaved family and described the attack as a “cowardly act” intended to disrupt the supply of essential goods and create instability in the region.
In a statement, Singh said that drivers involved in transporting essential commodities perform a crucial service by ensuring that supplies reach different parts of the state. He said targeting such individuals was an attempt to spread fear and disturb normal life.
The Chief Minister further alleged that vested interest groups might be behind the attack with the objective of undermining the government’s ongoing efforts to restore peace, stability and normalcy in Manipur.
He also wished a speedy recovery to the injured police constable and assured that all necessary assistance would be provided.
Following the incident, security forces launched search and cordon operations in nearby areas to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attack. Officials said security deployment has been intensified along the route and in surrounding areas as part of efforts to prevent further incidents.
The state government has assured that strict action will be taken against those involved and that the perpetrators will be brought to justice in accordance with the law.
The ambush has once again raised concerns over the safety of transport operators and the security of essential supply routes in Manipur’s hill districts. Authorities have maintained heightened vigilance along key highways and have reiterated their commitment to ensuring the uninterrupted movement of essential commodities across the state.
Officials said the situation remains under close monitoring as security agencies continue their operations in the area.
