A violent mob targeted an Assam Rifles camp in Senapati town, Manipur, during the night of 14–15 July 2026, resorting to stone pelting, arson attempts and vandalism. Security forces exercised maximum restraint while responding to the situation and successfully brought the incident under control with coordinated efforts by the Assam Rifles, Manipur Police and the CRPF.
The incident followed an area domination and search operation launched by the Assam Rifles based on credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of armed cadres in the general area of Makuilongdi, located approximately two kilometres west of the designated NSCN (IM) camp at Oklong. Intelligence inputs, along with social media updates, indicated the movement of armed cadres outside designated camps while carrying weapons and wearing uniforms, allegedly in violation of established Ceasefire Ground Rules.
The reported violations were promptly brought to the notice of the Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG), highlighting the security concerns arising from such activities.
During the operation, Assam Rifles columns moving towards Makuilongdi and Oklong villages faced obstruction from local residents, including women. The troops maintained restraint and engaged with local representatives, clarifying that the operation was aimed solely at maintaining security and peace in the area. The columns also assured that no village would be entered without due consent from the concerned authorities.
As tensions escalated, a large gathering was reported in Senapati town at around 9 PM, with the crowd reportedly preparing to march towards the Assam Rifles camp. Despite the withdrawal of operational columns, the mob reached the camp at approximately 9:30 PM and began pelting stones, damaging property and attempting acts of arson.
In a measured response, security personnel employed minimum force to prevent further escalation and disperse the violent crowd. Blank rounds and tear-gas grenades were used in coordination with Manipur Police to restore order.
Senapati Police and CRPF personnel were subsequently deployed to support law and order measures. During the retreat, a section of the mob vandalised Assam Rifles vehicles, setting one light vehicle on fire and damaging two trucks after overturning them. A civilian vehicle was also reportedly burnt during the violence.
Through coordinated action by the security forces and civil administration, the situation was brought under control and the crowd was fully dispersed by midnight.
The situation in Senapati remains peaceful and stable. No casualties or injuries were reported among civilians or security personnel. Engagements are underway with Civil Society Organisations and district authorities to address concerns and maintain communal harmony.
Security forces continue to remain committed to safeguarding peace, ensuring the safety of citizens and upholding the rule of law while maintaining the highest standards of restraint and professionalism in the region.
(Inputs from Defence PRO Manipur, Nagaland and Southern Arunachal Pradesh)
