Militants attack in Manipur :Two Assam Rifles Personnel Killed in Terrorist Ambush by PLA

AGENCIES, IMPHAL, SEP 19, 2025 : A violent ambush in the Nambol area of Bishnupur district in Manipur on Friday, September 19, 2025, left two Assam Rifles (AR) personnel dead and five others seriously injured. The attack, attributed to "unidentified terrorists," occurred at around 5:50 pm and marks the first assault on central security forces in the region since the violent ethnic clashes between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities began in May 2023.

The victims of the ambush have been identified as Naib Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap. These two AR personnel tragically lost their lives during a coordinated attack by militants. According to an official statement from the Ministry of Defence, the ambush took place on National Highway-2 (NH-2), a key route in the state, particularly notable as the same highway was used by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Manipur just days before the attack.

At the time of the attack, a vehicle-based column of 33 Assam Rifles was traveling along NH-2 through the Nambol Sabal Leikai area. The column, composed of AR personnel, was using the cover of darkness to pass through this sensitive region, which is strategically important for security forces. The militants, who had reportedly set up an ambush on a corner of the road, opened fire with AK-47 rifles.

Description of the Attack

The attack was swift and brutal. Armed with assault rifles, the militants ambushed the AR vehicle at close range, making it nearly impossible for the personnel inside to respond in time. The attack led to the immediate death of two soldiers — Naib Subedar Shyam Gurung and Rifleman Ranjit Singh Kashyap — who were in the front of the vehicle when the shots rang out. The gunfire left the soldiers with no chance to defend themselves, as the ambush was executed with military precision and took advantage of the vehicle’s position.

Following the initial gunfire, the armed militants are suspected to have fled the scene in a van, according to government sources. The attack was sudden, leaving the AR personnel little time to react. Despite the rapid nature of the assault, security forces launched a swift operation to track down the perpetrators, with search teams deployed to the area shortly after the ambush.

The Injured Personnel

Five other Assam Rifles soldiers sustained injuries during the ambush. Although their injuries were serious, all of the injured personnel were evacuated to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal. According to the latest reports from Assam Rifles, the soldiers are currently stable, but their identities and specific injuries have not been fully disclosed.

These soldiers were part of the same team that had been engaged in flood relief operations in the state over the past few days. The attack not only highlights the danger posed to security forces on routine duty but also underscores the complex security situation in Manipur, where the central forces are frequently caught in the crossfire of ongoing ethnic violence.

Search Operations and Security Concerns

Following the ambush, a large-scale search operation was launched in the area to apprehend the militants responsible for the attack. The security forces have intensified efforts to neutralize any remaining threats in the region. The attack has intensified security concerns in the state, as it is the first such direct assault on Assam Rifles personnel since the ethnic violence erupted in 2023.

The region, where the ambush took place, had been denotified under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in March 2023, after a significant reduction in violent activities. However, the persistence of insurgent and militant groups operating in the area remains a major challenge. The militants involved in the attack are suspected to be part of the banned People’s Liberation Army (PLA), a Meitei insurgent group known for operating from across the Myanmar border. Although no group has officially claimed responsibility, the nature of the attack and the tactical capabilities of the militants strongly suggest that the PLA could be behind it.

Governor's Condolences and Reactions

The tragic loss of life has elicited strong reactions from the government. Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla strongly condemned the attack and extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers. In a statement released by Raj Bhavan, the Governor said, "The Governor expressed profound grief and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the martyred soldiers, acknowledging their unwavering courage and dedication in protecting the nation. He further conveyed prayers for the speedy recovery of those who sustained injuries in the incident."

Governor Bhalla reiterated that such heinous acts of violence would not be tolerated and would be met with the strongest possible resolve. He vowed that security forces would continue to safeguard the peace and stability of the region. "The loss of these brave men will not go in vain, and we will ensure that the perpetrators of this crime are brought to justice," the Governor’s statement concluded.

Context of the Conflict and Recent Developments

This ambush is a stark reminder of the fragile security situation in Manipur. Since ethnic violence between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities erupted in May 2023, the region has been plagued by sporadic clashes, insurgent activity, and attacks on security forces. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had visited the state just days before the attack, on September 13, 2025, marking his first visit since the conflict began. During his visit, he had urged all parties involved in the violence to pursue peace and dialogue. However, the ongoing violence, including this latest attack, highlights the deep challenges that remain in the state.

The last major attack on security forces in Manipur occurred in September 2024, when a CRPF personnel was killed, and two police officers were injured in a similar ambush near Jiribam. Despite various efforts to restore order and stability, including the imposition of President's Rule in February 2025, the security forces continue to face constant threats from insurgent groups and militants operating in the region.

The recent ambush is seen as an attempt by insurgent groups to assert their presence and challenge the authority of the central government in the state, as well as a direct message to the forces stationed in the area.

The Way Forward

As search operations continue and the state grapples with the aftermath of the attack, the government remains committed to restoring peace. The Assam Rifles and other central security forces continue their efforts to neutralize insurgents in the region, but the attack underscores the high stakes and risks that security personnel face while attempting to secure a fragile peace.

The government’s resolve to tackle such militant attacks remains unwavering, and as the state seeks to recover from years of ethnic violence, the loss of the two brave soldiers will not be forgotten. The people of Manipur, and the entire nation, mourn the sacrifices made by these soldiers in the service of the country, even as efforts to restore normalcy and peace continue.