Security Forces Detain Suspect Linked to Manipur Fuel Station Bombing

In a significant development, security forces in Manipur have arrested multiple suspects connected to a bomb explosion at a fuel station in Bishnupur district. The latest arrest involved a 41-year-old man found with a cache of weapons. This incident, which occurred on January 8, resulted in substantial damage but no casualties. Following the explosion, fuel stations across the region were temporarily closed, leading to discussions on enhancing security measures. The local petroleum dealers' federation has called for government accountability and better safety protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 16, 2026, 17:07 IST

Arrest Made in Connection with Bomb Blast

Imphal, January 16: Authorities have apprehended an additional suspect believed to be involved in a recent bomb explosion at a fuel station in Bishnupur district, according to police reports released on Friday.

The 41-year-old individual was taken into custody from the Lamphel Sana Keithel region in Imphal West on Thursday. A significant amount of weaponry and ammunition was seized during the arrest, as confirmed by a senior police official.

"Among the items recovered were one SMG carbine with four loaded magazines, a 9 mm pistol, two 36 HE hand grenades, and two detonators," the officer stated.

Previously, a 35-year-old member of the outlawed Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) was arrested in the Komnao Makha Leikai area of Kakching district.

This individual, identified as Hijam Manichandra Singh, is also implicated in the January 8 bombing incident.

"The suspect arrested on January 15 was an associate of the primary suspect involved in the explosion," the officer added.

The bombing occurred at the Elidas fuel station in the Moirang Thana Leikai area on the evening of January 8.

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

This incident led to a three-day closure of all fuel stations in the valley regions of the northeastern state.

Operations at petrol pumps across Manipur resumed on January 13 following discussions between the Manipur Petroleum Dealers' Federation (MPDF) and the State Home Department, which included government commitments to enhance security measures at fuel stations.

The federation had called for improved security at fuel outlets, government accountability for incidents like bombings or kidnappings, compensation for damages, and adequate financial support in cases of injury or fatalities.