Imphal: In a coordinated operation, security forces dismantled 58 illegally constructed bunkers in Manipur’s Ukhrul and Kamjong districts, officials said on Thursday.
The joint action involved personnel of the Army’s 8 Bihar Regiment, Manipur Police and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). The bunkers, allegedly set up by armed groups linked to Naga and Kuki communities, had been a source of concern for nearly two months.
According to officials, 52 bunkers were demolished during operations carried out at Mahadev Thoyee Ridge and Zalengbung Ridge in Ukhrul district on Thursday. A day earlier, six bunkers were dismantled at Litan and Mongkat Chepu, rendering most of the fortified positions in the violence-affected Litan region ineffective.
Security forces had also conducted simultaneous operations on March 24 within the jurisdiction of Litan police station, targeting bunker sites at Lengiangching and Mongkat Chepu villages. A large number of spent cartridges were recovered during the operations.
Officials said the demolition of bunkers on both sides has led to a marked reduction in firing incidents. Security agencies have since intensified area domination through regular patrols and the strategic deployment of troops to prevent any escalation of violence.
Meanwhile, the Kuki Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Working Committee in Ukhrul district welcomed the joint operations, describing the dismantling of bunkers on both sides as a necessary step to safeguard civilians, including schoolchildren.