Tragic Incident in Manipur: Police Officer Killed During Anti-Drug Operation

In a tragic event in Manipur's Thoubal district, a police officer was fatally stabbed during an anti-drug operation. Havildar Kh. Suresh Singh was attacked by a suspected drug trafficker, leading to his death shortly after being hospitalized. The incident has prompted a manhunt for the second suspect and sparked outrage among civil society groups, who are calling for justice. The All Yaripok Meitei Pangal Clubs Organisation has condemned the attack and urged authorities to take strict action against those responsible. As investigations continue, the community seeks answers and accountability.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 14:38 IST

Police Officer Fatally Stabbed in Thoubal

The alleged attacker Md. Naobi with the team of Thoubal District Police. (AT Photo)

Imphal, June 5: A tragic incident unfolded in Manipur's Thoubal district when a police officer was fatally stabbed by a suspected drug trafficker during an anti-drug operation late Wednesday night.

The victim has been identified as Havildar Kh. Suresh Singh, a member of the 4th India Reserve Battalion (IRB) assigned to the Commando Unit in Thoubal.

According to law enforcement officials, the commando unit initiated an operation around 8:20 PM on June 3, acting on specific intelligence regarding illegal drug trafficking in the area.

During this operation, two suspects were taken into custody for questioning. However, one of them, identified as Md. Naobi alias Mahil (25), allegedly attacked Havildar Singh with a knife.

The assault left the officer critically injured. Amid the chaos, both the attacker and the second detainee managed to escape, as reported by the police.

Havildar Singh was quickly transported to the District Hospital in Thoubal, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival at approximately 9:15 PM.

In response to the incident, security forces launched extensive search operations to locate the suspects.

Police confirmed that the primary suspect, Md. Naobi, was apprehended by Thoubal District Police around 8:45 AM on Thursday.

Efforts are ongoing to capture the second suspect, who remains at large. Authorities have also begun a thorough investigation to clarify the events leading up to the fatal attack.

The incident has sparked strong reactions from civil society organizations. The All Yaripok Meitei Pangal Clubs Organisation (AYMPCO) condemned the attack and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased officer.

In their statement, the organization called on authorities to ensure that those responsible face strict legal action and that justice is served promptly.

AYMPCO emphasized that criminal behavior should not be linked to any specific community and insisted that individuals found guilty must face the law, regardless of their background.

Police have stated that search operations are ongoing to locate the absconding suspect and to conclude the investigation into this case.