Imphal, January 20: Personnel of 14 Assam Rifles averted a major mishap by killing a cadre of the KRA who was planting an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) at Changoubung, 5 kms north of Kangpokpi along National Highway 39 at around 4 am today.

A PIB Defence Wing release informed that a column of 14 Assam Rifles were on a night patrol for the road opening when the personnel observed some suspicious movement along the road.

On coming closer it was found out that two militants were digging the road and were in the process of laying IEDs.

On being challenged by the troops, the militants panicked and opened fire at the troops.

The troops also returned the fire and killed one of the militants at the spot.

The other militant, however, managed to escape under cover of the thick fog and darkness, the Defence Wing release said.

The slain militant has been identified as one captain Lalminphang alias Ramen (25) of Taphou village.

One IED with remote control, one 9 mm pistol along with live rounds and explosive materials have also been reportedly recovered from the site.

The IEDs were probably being planted with the aim of targeting the security forces and to disturb the peaceful environment of the area, the Defence Wing release said, claiming that the alertness of the security forces have averted a major mishap.

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