The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Manipur):In a significant development in Manipur, seven personnel from the 5th Battalion of the Manipur Rifles have been suspended due to their failure in duty, which led to the theft of arms and ammunition. This incident occurred at their camp in the Imphal East district on Tuesday, as confirmed by officials.
The suspension order, citing “grave negligence and dereliction of duties,” was issued following the looting incident at the battalion’s armoury. In a related police statement, it was revealed that six individuals have been arrested in connection with the theft. The authorities recovered four INSAS rifles, one AK Ghatak-2, several self-loading rifle magazines, and 16 boxes of 9 mm ammunition on Wednesday night. These items are believed to have been stolen from the armoury.
In response to escalating tensions, internet and mobile data services have been suspended for five days starting Friday in Churachandpur district, known for its significant tribal population. This decision came after about 400 people attempted to storm the district superintendent of police’s office on Thursday night. The security forces managed to disperse the crowd using tear gas, although the situation remained tense until late Friday night.
The arms looting incident on Tuesday involved a mob, accompanied by some village volunteers, forcefully entering the camp of the 5th Battalion Manipur Rifles at Chingarel in Imphal East district. They managed to flee with various arms and ammunition, leading to the current heightened security measures and investigations.