An Assam Rifles patrol came under attack near the India-Myanmar border in Manipur’s Tengnoupal district, with the attackers reportedly using improvised explosive devices (IEDs) before opening fire on security personnel.
The incident took place on August 23 in the Saibol sector, close to the international border. At least one Assam Rifles personnel was injured in the attack, according to reports.
The attackers allegedly planted multiple IEDs along the roadside and detonated them as the Assam Rifles patrol moved through the area. This was followed by gunfire, leading to a brief exchange between the attackers and security personnel.
The assailants later withdrew from the area as additional security forces were deployed, reports said. Security agencies are examining whether the attackers may have used routes leading towards Myanmar to escape.
The injured Assam Rifles personnel was provided medical assistance and evacuated for further treatment. The injury was not reported to be life-threatening.
Reports have suggested that cadres linked to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and the Manipur Naga Revolutionary Front (MNRF) may have been involved in the attack. However, authorities have not publicly confirmed the identity of the attackers or officially attributed responsibility to any particular insurgent group.
Following the incident, additional security personnel were rushed to the area and a search-and-cordon operation was launched across the Saibol sector and adjoining forested areas.
Security teams are searching possible escape routes, including tracks leading towards the international border. Investigators are also examining the blast sites for remnants of the IEDs, ammunition and other material that could help establish the identity of those responsible for the attack.
The incident comes amid continuing security concerns along Manipur’s eastern frontier, where difficult terrain, dense forests and stretches of unfenced international boundary pose challenges for security forces.
The Saibol sector and surrounding border areas have remained sensitive due to their proximity to Myanmar. Security agencies have raised concerns over the possible movement of armed cadres, weapons and supplies through the difficult border terrain.