Security forces have apprehended three hardcore militants, including a member of the banned outfit Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), for their suspected roles in a bomb blast at a fuel station in Manipur’s Bishnupur district. The arrests took place in Imphal West and Kakching districts within the last 24 hours. Among those arrested is Hijam Manichandra Singh (35), a KYKL cadre allegedly linked to the explosion at a petrol pump in Bishnupur district on January 8.
Following Singh’s arrest, authorities have identified other individuals involved in the bombing, and efforts are underway to capture the remaining suspects. The incident on January 8 involved militants on a two-wheeler throwing a bomb at the fuel station in Moirang Thana Leikai, resulting in an explosion that damaged the station. While no injuries were reported, the blast caused significant harm to the facility.
In response to the recent attacks on fuel stations in Manipur, petrol pumps across the region, including Manipur Valley and nearby areas, remained closed on January 10. This shutdown was initiated by the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF) to demand better security measures for fuel outlets and staff members. The MPDF has urged for increased security at petrol pumps to prevent future assaults, as well as government accountability in cases of attacks or kidnappings.
The fraternity’s demands also include compensation for damages incurred during the January 8 blast and adequate financial support in case of injuries or fatalities among dealers or staff members. Additionally, security forces conducted a joint operation in the past day, recovering a cache of arms and ammunition from Imphal West district. The seized items include a Self-Loading Rifle (SLR) with magazines, single-barrel guns, pistols, and various ammunition rounds.
