In a latest development from the ethnic-clashes hit northeastern state of Manipur, infuriated mobs killed a police officer in Imphal West while looting arms and ammunition, including automatic guns in Bishnupur while their attempt to seize arms and ammunition from Heingang and Singjamei police stations was foiled by the security forces.
It has been reported that the police officer was killed in Senjam Chirang in Imphal West after being shot in the head by a sniper while a village volunteer also sustained injury in the gun battle.
As per media reports, the mobs ransacked the Kirenphabi Police outpost and Thangalawai Police outpost of the Manipur Armed Police second battalion in Bishnupur district and looted the weapons.
According to an official statement, the crossfire between the security forces and the attackers took place in Koutruk, Haraothel, and Senjam Chirang areas which injured two people, including one security personnel.
The intense fire exchange also gathered a large crowd of 500-600 people at Phougakchao Ikhai, on the border between Bishnupur and Churachandpur districts.
Security forces fired tear gas shells to disperse the mob, and around 25 people sustained minor injuries.
"During the last 24 hours, the situation in the state is still volatile and tense with sporadic incidents of firing and gathering of unruly mobs in different places," the police statement added.
According to the police, a total of 129 checkpoints were set up in both the hill and valley districts of Manipur. Around 1,047 people have been detained in connection with violations in different districts of the state.
