Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam on Wednesday said the recent clash at Thinungei in Bishnupur district was triggered by a misunderstanding between civilians and security forces.
Addressing mediapersons at the New Secretariat Complex, Mantripukhri, the Minister clarified that the situation escalated after a rumour spread, reportedly initiated by a woman, leading to clashes that left around 30 people injured.
Appealing for calm, he urged the public not to resort to road blockades and to maintain peace, while asking people to place their trust in the agencies investigating the Tronglaobi incident.
Responding to queries on the Tronglaobi blast case, Konthoujam said the probe is being handled by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
He said that five suspected cadres of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA) have been arrested so far, and further developments are expected as the investigation progresses.
Giving details on the Thinungei violence, the minister said eight firearms were snatched by protestors during the unrest but were later recovered by security personnel.
Meanwhile, the State government has stepped up security measures in view of the growing unrest.
Over 34,000 security personnel are currently deployed across Manipur, the minister informed even as he acknowledged a shortfall of more than 7,000 personnel.
He further said that the government would soon launch a recruitment drive to fill the vacancies.
Misunderstanding Led To Clash In Thinungei, Clarifies Manipur Home Minister
