Imphal, May 30: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has assured strict action against those responsible for the ambush on a security-escorted convoy in Ukhrul district that claimed the life of a truck driver from West Bengal.
The attack occurred on May 29 near TM Kasom when suspected militants allegedly opened fire on a convoy of stranded Food Corporation of India (FCI) trucks and LPG tankers being escorted by personnel of Manipur Police, CRPF, BSF and RAF from Yaingangpokpi towards Ukhrul.
The deceased was identified as Nitish Kumar (57), an FCI truck driver from Hooghly district in West Bengal. A police personnel attached to Litan Police Station also sustained bullet injuries during the incident.
Speaking to reporters in Imphal, the Chief Minister said a case has been registered and an investigation is underway.
“An FIR has already been registered and investigation is going on,” Singh said, adding that those involved in the ambush would face strict action.
Addressing a special interaction programme with Scheduled Tribe post-matric scholarship beneficiaries under the “Birsa Lives in New Bharat” Week, the Chief Minister emphasised that peace is essential for the state’s progress.
“Without peace, development cannot take place. Students are among those most affected by violence. We need peace through dialogue and must collectively create a peaceful atmosphere,” he said.
The programme, organised by the Department of Tribal Affairs and Hills, Government of Manipur, was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen. Students from Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts participated virtually.
Meanwhile, hundreds of truck drivers suspended transportation services along National Highway-37 (Imphal–Jiribam Road) in protest against the attack. Around 400 vehicles, including LPG tankers, oil tankers and goods carriers, remained parked at Keithelmanbi as drivers demanded enhanced highway security and the reopening of National Highway-102 for regular movement.
Driver representatives said transport services would remain suspended until adequate security measures are put in place.
