Government Condemns Civilian Killings in Manipur; NIA to Take Over Investigation : Militant Ambush in Ukhrul District Leaves Two Dead, Sparks Security Concerns

 Attack on Imphal–Ukhrul Road Raises Alarm Over Civilian Safety and Regional Stability

Aseem Bhakta Singh, KalimNews, April 18, 2026, Imphal: The government of Manipur has issued a strong condemnation following the tragic killing of two civilians in a militant attack that took place at T.M. Kasom village in the Ukhrul district on Saturday afternoon. The incident, which occurred around 2:30 pm, has once again highlighted the fragile security situation in the region and raised serious concerns about the safety of civilians travelling along key routes.

According to preliminary information, unidentified armed assailants—suspected to be Kuki militants—launched a sudden ambush on a convoy of vehicles travelling from Imphal towards Ukhrul along the Imphal–Ukhrul road. The attack unfolded between Litan and T.M. Kasom village under the jurisdiction of Litan Police Station, where militants reportedly opened indiscriminate fire on five vehicles. The unexpected gunfire not only resulted in the loss of two innocent lives but also triggered widespread panic among commuters using the route at the time.

Reacting swiftly to the incident, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh confirmed that a formal case has been registered at Litan Police Station and that a detailed investigation is currently underway. Emphasizing the seriousness of the situation, he announced that the case would be transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to ensure a thorough and impartial probe.

The Chief Minister expressed profound sorrow over the loss of lives, extending his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. He described the attack as a brutal strike against peace and communal harmony in the state, characterizing it as a deeply reprehensible act carried out against unarmed civilians. In his remarks, he made it clear that such acts of violence are unacceptable in any civilised society and must be dealt with firmly.

In response to the attack, security forces were immediately deployed to the affected area, where operations are currently underway to track down and apprehend those responsible. Authorities have assured that every effort will be made to bring the perpetrators to justice without delay.

The situation is being closely monitored at the highest level, with the Chief Minister and Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam personally overseeing developments. A high-level review meeting has already been conducted to assess the existing security arrangements and to strengthen measures aimed at preventing further incidents.

Calling for unity and vigilance, the Home Minister urged the public to cooperate fully with security agencies by sharing any relevant information that could assist in the investigation. The government has reiterated its commitment to protecting the lives and safety of all citizens, assuring that additional steps will be taken to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Appealing for calm, the Chief Minister also urged people across communities not to succumb to fear or provocation, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and social harmony during this sensitive time.

Notably, the incident occurred just a day after the Chief Minister’s visit to Ukhrul district via the same Imphal–Ukhrul road, where he had reassured the public of the government’s dedication to restoring stability in the region. However, the subsequent attack on Saturday afternoon—during which armed militants again targeted civilian vehicles along the route—left at least one person dead and two others critically injured, underscoring the urgent need for sustained and effective security interventions.