Imphal: Govindas Konthoujam, Home Minister, Government of Manipur, appealed to the public to refrain from spreading misinformation during a press conference held at the Minister’s Block, New Secretariat at Mantripukhri in Imphal West district on Wednesday.
The conference was chaired by Govindas Konthoujam, Home Minister, and was also attended by MLAs Thongam Basanta, Tongbram Robindro and Irengbam Nalini Devi.
Addressing media personnel, the minister informed that there has been a tense situation in Bishnupur district since yesterday due to an unfortunate incident which has further escalated in the district.
Govindas stated that, based on a specific source, a joint team of CISF, Assam Rifles, and state forces apprehended a drug peddler, Sabhir Ahmad, from Tulihal Airport, Imphal, at around 10.30 am.
During interrogation, he revealed the presence of more drugs and weapons at Kwakta in Bishnupur district. Accordingly, Assam Rifles personnel in plain clothes escorted him to the location.
However, on the way, an unfortunate incident occurred when local women, who were frisking vehicles, stopped the team, leading to a miscommunication. It was claimed that a particular tribe was inside the vehicle, which created confusion and suspicion among the public.
Due to this misunderstanding, tensions escalated quickly, and the situation turned violent. People started attacking, and in the chaos, some individuals were injured. The vehicle was set on fire, and more unrest spread in the area, he added.
He further mentioned that security forces, including Assam Rifles and commandos, arrived and carried out rescue operations. Some people were safely evacuated. Local volunteers and groups also helped in rescuing people and controlling the situation.
State security forces, along with central forces and the army, have been deployed, and combing operations are ongoing to control the situation and prevent further unrest. The incident reportedly involved armed individuals and has raised serious concerns about safety and law and order.
Authorities are working to identify and take action against those responsible within the shortest possible time, Govindas informed.
Govindas appealed for calm and requested everyone not to spread panic or misinformation.
The authorities concerned, including the MLAs of Moirang and Kumbi constituencies, have already been informed, and necessary steps are being taken. A meeting with the Chief Minister is also being planned to address the situation, he added.
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