Imphal, December 04: The Army has deployed Explosive Device Detection and Destruction Teams in remote areas of the State to defuse Improvised Explosive Devices and sanitise any place as and when information is received from the villagers of IEDs being implanted.

In a statement issued by the PIB (D/W), it contended that 11 civilians have fallen victims to IED explosions in addition to 13 serious casualties.

The Army have sanitised areas of Henshi and Sajik in Chandel district, Kaiphundai and adjoining areas in Tamenglong district, Aina, Santing, Mulhoichin, Phoupheng and Maite in Henglep sub-division and Bekra region in Jiri sub-division totaling 125 IEDs in the past one year, added the statement.

The statement further mentioned of army providing medical aid to casualties and evacuation to nearest hospitals.

It also assured that the Army is committed on providing a secure environment to the people specially in remote areas.

Forced labour slur on AR : In another case of forced labour allegations, personnel of E-Coy, 33 AR have intimidated people of Kakching Khunou to cut down the trees on the flanks of the road from Aihang village to Touheidabi makeshift bridge, a stretch of about 2 kms.

A team of reporters visiting the place yesterday witnessed villagers being made to cut down shrubs and trees.

They have been forced by the strong pressure exerted by AR on the councillors, members and Meira Paibis of Kakching Khunou Gram Panchayat, they informed.

Comment