Tensions Rise in Manipur After Militant Attack on Border Villages

A recent militant attack in Manipur's Kamjong district has resulted in two individuals going missing, raising alarm among local residents. The assault, which targeted several border villages, has led to significant property damage and injuries. Local leaders are demanding increased security measures, citing previous warnings that went unheeded. The situation remains tense as security forces respond to the crisis, with calls for better protection of vulnerable border areas. This incident highlights ongoing security challenges in the region, prompting concerns about external threats amidst existing internal tensions.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 7, 2026, 16:55 IST

Militant Assault in Kamjong District

Several houses were reportedly set ablaze during the assault on border villages of Choro, Wanglee and Namlee. (Photo Credit)

Imphal, May 7: Following a pre-dawn raid by suspected militants from Myanmar, two individuals have gone missing in the Kamjong district of Manipur, heightening local tensions amid fears of further violence.

The missing persons have been identified as Chinga Ningshen, aged 35, and a widow from Imphal named Itobi. Residents believe they may have been abducted during the chaos.

Reports indicate that villages such as Choro, Wanglee, and Namlee were targeted in a coordinated attack occurring between 3:30 AM and 4 AM.

During the assault, multiple homes were set on fire, and at least five to six individuals suffered injuries.

The atmosphere in the affected areas remained tense throughout Thursday, with locals staging road blockades and demanding increased security presence in the vulnerable border region, despite the deployment of security forces.

Phungyar legislator Leshio Keishing criticized the government for serious lapses in border security, stating that warnings from villagers had been ignored.

Phungyar legislator Leshio Keishing addressing the press, on Thursday. (Photo Credit)

Keishing noted that village leaders had requested the state government on April 24 to enhance security in the area due to fears of potential attacks, but their appeals went unheeded.

Describing the incident as an act of 'external aggression,' he emphasized that the situation should not be interpreted through a communal or ethnic perspective.

“The suffering of the people has reached unbearable levels. While the state has been grappling with internal ethnic conflicts, we are now facing external threats as well,” he stated.

He further remarked that border security should not focus solely on the state capital and VIP areas, as residents in remote border regions are at risk daily.

“I have consistently warned the government that without addressing militant activities and bolstering security, such incidents would occur,” he added.

Keishing also pointed out the severe lack of personnel at the Namlee Police Station.

“The Namlee Police Station is critically understaffed. Despite numerous requests from locals to increase the number of officers, the government has not responded. On the day of the attack, there was no state police presence to witness the events,” he claimed.

According to Keishing, Choro village suffered extensive damage, with most of it burned down except for the church, while many homes in Namlee and Wanglee were either completely destroyed or partially damaged.

Security forces examine the torched houses. (Photo Credit)

He also reported that a pastor from Choro village and four women were allegedly abducted during the attack but were later released after being held for a while. Their mobile phones, cash, and other valuables were reportedly taken.

Keishing questioned the response of nearby security personnel, alleging that forces stationed at a nearby Assam Rifles camp failed to act despite hearing prolonged gunfire during the incident.

Security agencies are currently monitoring the situation closely, with further updates expected soon.