At least 18 civilians, including five women, were injured in Manipur’s Bishnupur district as a mob set fire to two security force vehicles. The violence stemmed from the discovery of a significant amount of drugs from a suspected drug peddler at Imphal airport.
A joint operation by the Central Industrial Security Force and Airport Police led to the arrest of the suspected drug peddler, identified as Mohammad Sabir Ahamed. Approximately 6.74 kg of suspected brown sugar hidden inside containers was seized from Ahamed’s checked-in baggage.
Following the arrest, the accused disclosed information about a hidden cache of arms and ammunition in the Kwakta area of Bishnupur district. However, en route to the location, security forces faced obstruction from local residents due to rumors about their identity and purpose, leading to a violent confrontation.
Additional forces were deployed to disperse the crowd using tear gas to restore order. 18 civilians, including five women, sustained injuries during the incident and were provided with necessary medical assistance. Efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those involved in the mob violence.
A flag march was conducted by central and state forces to maintain law and order in the area. Authorities have urged the public to refrain from spreading rumors and cooperate with law enforcement to prevent further violence.
