Manipur Security Forces Capture Militants Linked to Fuel Station Bombing

In a significant development, Manipur security forces have apprehended three militants, including a member of a banned organization, following a bomb explosion at a fuel station in Bishnupur district. The incident, which occurred on January 8, prompted widespread concern and led to a temporary shutdown of petrol stations across the region. Authorities are now intensifying security measures to prevent further incidents. The arrested individuals are linked to known militant groups, and investigations are ongoing to track down additional suspects. This situation has raised alarms among fuel dealers, who are demanding better security and accountability from the government. The recent arrests and the recovery of weapons signal a proactive approach by law enforcement in addressing the escalating violence in the area.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 11:29 IST

Militants Arrested Following Bomb Incident

Imphal, January 13: Security personnel in Manipur have detained three individuals, including a member of a prohibited group, in relation to a bomb blast that occurred at a fuel station in Bishnupur district.

Authorities reported on Tuesday that the suspects are associated with the Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) and the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK). They were arrested in Imphal West and Kakching districts within the last day.

One of those apprehended, 35-year-old Hijam Manichandra Singh, is an active member of KYKL and is alleged to have participated in the explosion at the Elidas fuel station on January 8 in Moirang Thana Leikai.

Following his capture, law enforcement indicated that more accomplices have been identified, and efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining individuals involved.

Investigators revealed that militants on a motorcycle threw a bomb at the fuel station, resulting in an explosion. Fortunately, there were no injuries, but the blast inflicted significant damage to the facility.

Earlier that day, petrol stations throughout Manipur resumed operations after a three-day closure, which followed discussions between the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF) and the State Home Department, leading to government commitments to enhance security at fuel stations.

Fuel dealers noted that the shutdown had severely impacted daily activities and fuel distribution, but the agreement helped alleviate the fuel shortage. A committee consisting of government officials and MPDF members will evaluate property damage to establish compensation.

In response to the January 8 explosion at the Elidas fuel station and a similar incident on December 6 in Imphal East, the MPDF had initiated an indefinite closure of all petrol stations in the Valley and surrounding areas on January 10, citing serious security concerns for dealers and their staff.

The fraternity has called for improved security measures at fuel outlets, government accountability for incidents like bombings or kidnappings, compensation for property damage, and adequate financial support in cases of injury or fatalities.

Additionally, security forces conducted a joint operation over the past 24 hours, recovering weapons and ammunition in Imphal West district.

The seized items included one Self-Loading Rifle (SLR) with two magazines, two single-barrel shotguns, and three pistols along with three magazines. The ammunition recovered comprised 20 rounds of 7.62 mm SLR ammunition and eight tube launchers.