In a disturbing turn of events, police personnel in the Meitei-dominated valley districts of Manipur laid down their arms on February 28 in protest against the abduction of a police officer by members of Arambai Tenggol, a radical Meitei outfit.
The incident unfolded on February 27 when around 200 armed miscreants stormed the residence of Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Moirangthem Amit in Imphal East. The assailants sought the release of Robin M., the chief of Arambai Tenggol’s Sekmai unit, who had been arrested earlier that day for allegedly snatching a vehicle from a petrol pump.
During the chaos, the Addl SP and one of his escorts were abducted by the armed miscreants but were later rescued from Kwakeithel Konjeng Leikai area and admitted to Raj Medicity for medical treatment, as reported by Manipur Police.
The situation escalated as the armed miscreants vandalized household property at the police officer’s residence, prompting the dispatch of additional security forces to the scene. In the ensuing police action, two individuals, identified as Rabinash Moirangthem, 24, and Kangujam Bhimsen, 20, sustained injuries.
Expressing dismay, a Manipur Police official lamented the lack of support from civil society groups and the local populace, emphasizing the demoralizing effect on the force. Despite efforts to uphold law and order, challenges persist, especially with the significant backing enjoyed by Arambai Tenggol among the Meitei community.
Arambai Tenggol (AT), which emerged during the ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in May 2023, has garnered substantial support, complicating law enforcement efforts. Despite arrests and charges under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), the outfit continues to enjoy grassroots backing, often resulting in demands for the release of detained members.
The complexity of the situation is further underscored by the presence of armed civilians, heightening concerns about potential violence and the safety of law enforcement personnel. Government officials acknowledge the delicate balance required in handling AT members, mindful of the risk of triggering mass unrest or even targeted attacks against police officers.
As tensions simmer and security challenges persist in Manipur, the need for constructive dialogue, community engagement, and proactive measures to address underlying grievances becomes increasingly urgent. Efforts to restore trust between law enforcement agencies and local communities are paramount to fostering stability and peace in the region.
