
An unruly mob resorted to stone pelting, arson and vandalism against an Assam Rifles Camp in Senapati town in Manipur, on the night of 14-15 July 2026.
Based on credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of armed cadres in the general area of Makuilongdi, approximately 2 Kms west of the designated NSCN (IM) camp at Oklong, an area domination patrol and search operation was launched by the Assam Rifles stated a release issued by PRO & Spokesperson, Ministry of Defence, Manipur, Nagaland and Southern Arunachal Pradesh.
The release stated that intelligence reports and the social media posts indicated the presence of armed cadres moving outside designated camps, carrying weapons and wearing uniforms, in apparent violation of established Ceasefire Ground Rules.
Simultaneously, the Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG) was formally informed regarding the reported violations highlighting the security concerns.
During the course of the operation, the Assam Rifles columns approaching Makuilongdi and Oklong villages were obstructed by residents, involving women.
The columns exercised maximum restraint and communicated with the local representatives, assuring that the operations were aimed solely at ensuring security and maintaining peace in the area and that the columns would not enter any village without the consent of the authorities.
As tensions escalated, reports emerged at around 9 PM of a large crowd gathering in the Senapati town and preparing to march towards the Assam Rifles Camp.
Despite the withdrawal of the columns, a large mob reached the Camp at around 9:30 PM, pelting stones, damaging property and attempting acts of arson.
Upholding the utmost professionalism, the minimum force was employed to disperse the violent crowd and prevent further escalation, in coordination with Manipur Police, by firing blank rounds and tear-gas grenades.
The release stated that the Senapati Police and CRPF were immediately deployed to assist in restoring law and order.
Later, while retreating, a section of the mob vandalised and damaged Assam Rifles vehicles. One light vehicle was set ablaze, while two trucks were overturned and damaged. A civil car was also reportedly burnt during the violence.
Through the coordinated efforts of the Security Forces, Manipur Police and CRPF personnel, the situation was brought under control and the crowd fully dispersed by midnight.
The situation in Senapati is presently peaceful and under control. No injuries or casualties were sustained by the local population or security force personnel.
Efforts to address concerns and maintain communal harmony have been undertaken with Civil Society Organisations and District Authorities, the release added.

The Hills Journal
K. Salbung, Churachandpur
Manipur-795128