Woman Killed, Daughter Injured in Suspected Militant Attack in Manipur

IMPHAL WEST, Manipur 1 September 2024 : A tragic incident unfolded in Manipur’s Imphal West district on Sunday when suspected militants launched a coordinated gun-and-bomb attack, resulting in the death of a woman and injuries to four others, including her young daughter and a police officer. According to police sources, the attack began when militants fired indiscriminately from elevated hilltop positions, targeting the low-lying valley areas of Koutruk and the neighboring Kadangband. The sudden assault led to widespread panic among the local residents, who were caught off guard by the unexpected violence.

The deceased has been identified as 31-year-old Ngangbam Surbala Devi. Her body has been transported to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) for a post-mortem examination. Devi’s eight-year-old daughter was among those injured in the attack. Additionally, 30-year-old police officer N. Robert sustained injuries during the assault. Following the attack, the injured were rushed to medical facilities for treatment. Devi’s daughter and Officer N. Robert are currently receiving care at RIMS, while two other victims are recuperating at Raj Medicity. The attack’s intensity and suddenness forced many residents, including women, children, and the elderly, to flee their homes in search of safer locations. The security forces, comprising both state and central units, have been deployed to the affected areas to restore order and ensure the safety of the local population.

The incident has heightened concerns about security in the region, which has experienced sporadic violence in recent months. Authorities are working to stabilize the situation and prevent further escalation of conflict. Local officials and security agencies have called for calm and urged residents to cooperate with ongoing efforts to secure the area. The situation remains tense as authorities work to address the immediate needs of those affected and to prevent further violence.

As the investigation progresses, more details are expected to emerge about the perpetrators and their motives. In the meantime, the community is left grappling with the impact of this devastating attack and the continuing challenges of maintaining peace and security in the region.