Imphal: Elite Para Special Forces (Para SF) and Assam Rifles personnel launched a massive counter-insurgency operation in Manipur’s Kangpokpi and Imphal West districts on Tuesday. The operation involved coordinated air-drops via military helicopters.
Officials reported that an Indian Army para trooper injured his hand after a bad fall during the mission. He was immediately airlifted to the Leimakhaong Military Hospital, about 20 km from Imphal.
The security forces focused on the Koutruk Ching hill range. A dozen para troopers and Assam Rifles personnel were deployed after being airlifted from the Leimakhaong Military Base Camp.
They targeted areas containing abandoned bunkers set up by Kuki militants. Several bunkers were dismantled, but officials confirmed that no arrests were made.
The operation comes amid rising tensions in Manipur. Authorities intensified security after recent reports of drones being used to drop bombs.
In September 2024, suspected Kuki militants reportedly dropped bombs in Koutruk using weaponized drones, injuring three Meitei residents, including a young girl.
The heliborne mission started at 7:00 AM and ended at 1:30 PM. Officials said the operation aimed to tackle “Anti-National Elements” (ANEs) and armed militant groups. It specifically targeted insurgent hideouts to maintain peace in this sensitive border state.