CRPF jawan killed in militant attack in Manipur’s Jiribam district

Imphal: A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan was killed in a suspected militant attack at Mongbung village in Manipur's Jiribam district on Sunday morning, police reported.

A policeman was also injured in the attack and has been admitted to a hospital, authorities said.

The deceased jawan has been identified as Ajay Kumar Jha, 43, a resident of Bihar.

“He suffered bullet injuries in the head and was declared brought-dead in hospital. The injured policeman is undergoing treatment, but he is out of danger,” a police officer said.

In a post on X, Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the attack and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured.

“I strongly condemn the killing of a CRPF personnel in an attack carried out by an armed group, suspected to be Kuki militants, in Jiribam district today.

“His supreme sacrifice in the line of duty shall not go in vain. I further extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased soldier, while praying for the speedy recovery of the ones injured during the attack,” Singh said.

Gunshots were reportedly heard in the village on Saturday night as well, the officer mentioned.

Following Sunday’s attack, additional security forces have been deployed at Mongbung from nearby hill areas, another official reported.

A vehicle belonging to security personnel was also damaged in the gun attack, he added.

Manipur has been rocked by ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities since May last year, resulting in over 200 deaths.

(with inputs from agency)