Third attack on CM's residence, powerful Lethod bombs used in latest case
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 03:
Heavily armed UGs attacked the private house of Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh late last night at Thoubal Athokpam under Thoubal Dist injuring two IRB personnel of the 3rd Bn, said sources.
According to sources, unidentified militants taking advantage of the darkness caused by the load shedding in the area attacked the Chief Minister's residence with powerful Lethod bombs and automatic weapons from the northern and southern side of the CM's compound at around 10.45 last night injuring two personnel of the 3rd India Reserve Battalion personnel who also returned fire.
It may be noted here that one platoon of the III IRB is being kept at the CM's residence for security reasons even though the Chief Minister is staying at his official bungalow at Imphal.
Sources also said that the exchange of fire lasted for more than an hour after which the militants escaped under the cover of darkness.
The two injured IRB personnel have been identified as Doungel (No 1299612) of Saikul and Holkhosei (No 1299555) of Sugnu.
The two injured personnel, Holkhosei and Doungel, are stated to be out of danger, said the source adding that most of the exit points were sealed off by the police minutes after the incident was reported.
Heavy security reinforcements led by senior police officials launched a massive manhunt in and around Athokpam area this morning but no arrest was made so far, added the source.
Sources further said that the identity of the militants has not far been established so far although the area is infested by cadres of numerous insurgent groups.
Mention may be made here that last night's attack on the CM's residence was the third time suspected UGs had attacked the CM's residence at Athokpam with the last attack occurring on February 11.Sources also said that militants besides attacking FCS Minister Parijat's private residence at Lamlai last year had also attacked his official residence last month.
Other Ministers who had to face similar attacks of the UGs on their residences were Arts and Culture Minister Dr M Nara and PHE Minister Govindas.
The attacks on the both the Minister's residences were carried out last month.
Identity established : The identity of the bullet riddled body of a youth which was found at Serou Lamkhai under Sugnu PS yesterday has been established as Oinam Robindro alias Telheiba (28) a project officer of the proscribed outfit KCP, said sources.
According to family members, O Robindro is reported to have joined KCP about seven years back and has never returned home since then.
The body has been deposited at the RIMS morgue today by the Sugnu police.
Post mortem will be conducted at Lilong PHC tomorrow.
The victim is reported to be from Kiyamgei Awang Leikai.
Meanwhile, personnel of Imphal West Dist police apprehended one UNLF activist from Sekmaijin Thongam Leikai.