Imphal: Amid heightened tension following the killing of two minors in a suspected projectile attack in the Moirang Tronglaobi area, a remote-controlled improvised explosive device (IED) was defused by the Manipur Police’s Bomb Disposal Squad in Bishnupur district on Tuesday.
Officials said the device was detected and safely neutralised at around 11.36 am, averting a possible tragedy. Preliminary inputs suggested that the IED may have been planted a day earlier.
The recovery comes in the wake of widespread protests across Bishnupur after two children were killed and their mother injured in a suspected projectile attack during the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday.
Thousands of people reportedly marched from Bishnupur Bazar to Tronglaobi, while demonstrators blocked key roads and set tyres ablaze, disrupting normal life in the district.
Shops and commercial establishments remained shut, while schools, colleges and several government offices also remained closed amid the unrest.
Security forces have stepped up vigil in sensitive areas, with additional personnel deployed to prevent any further escalation.
Amid the tense situation, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh visited Raj Medicity on Tuesday morning to enquire about the condition of the injured woman, who lost her two children in the attack.
Expressing concern, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure proper medical care and extend all necessary assistance to the victim.
Condemning the incident, Singh described it as a “barbaric act” and said those responsible would be identified and dealt with strictly under the law.
“Let there be no doubt, those responsible will be hunted down,” he said.
He also urged people to remain united and not allow forces seeking to disturb peace and harmony to succeed.
Security has since been tightened further across Bishnupur as authorities remain on alert against any fresh flare-up.