Violent Protests Shake Manipur, Govt Office Vandalized, Vehicles Torched

Imphal: Violent protests over the death of two youths in Manipur continued throughout Wednesday night till the early hours of Thursday. Angry mob ransacked the deputy commissioner’s office in Imphal West and burnt down two four-wheelers. A BJP office at Khongjam in Thoubal district was set on fire.

Recent violent protests led by students, broke out in the state capital Imphal on Tuesday after photos of the bodies of two youths who went missing in July went viral on social media.

The protesters clashed with security personnel in Uripok, Yaiskul, Sagolband and Tera areas on Wednesday night. Security forces fired teargas shells to disperse the mob.

In several areas, the protesters blocked roads with burning tyres, boulders and iron pipes to stop the entry of security forces

Curfew was re-imposed in Imphal East and West districts because of violent protests. Since Tuesday, at least 65 persons have been injured in the recent violence.

In a statement, the Manipur Police said that a mob targeted a police vehicle and burnt it while assaulting a policeman and snatching his weapon.

Stern action will be taken against those indulging in such crimes, it said, adding that a search operation was underway for the recovery of the snatched arms and the arrest of the accused.