Imphal, Jan 5: Panic spread across parts of Manipur’s Bishnupur district after a series of improvised explosive device (IED) explosions were reported in the early hours of Monday, raising security concerns in the area. The blasts occurred at and around an abandoned house, startling residents and prompting an immediate response from security forces.
According to preliminary information, the first two explosions were heard between 5:40 am and 5:55 am, followed by another blast at around 8:30 am. The incidents took place in the Saiton–Nganukon area under the jurisdiction of Phougakchao police station, an area that falls under the security cover of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The powerful explosions jolted people awake and triggered fear among locals.
Sources said the explosive devices were planted at an abandoned house belonging to 70-year-old Salam Manipur, who is currently residing at a relief camp. After the initial blasts, residents rushed to the location to assess the situation. However, tensions escalated further when another explosion occurred at approximately 8:46 am, about 200 metres away from the abandoned house.
The third blast left two people injured. The injured were identified as Soibam Sanatombi, 52, son of late S. Angoubi of Saiton Makha Leikai, and Nongthombam Indubala, 37, wife of late N. Bishworjit of Saiton Heiyaikon Maning Leikai. Both sustained injuries in the explosion and were immediately taken to Bishnupur District Hospital, where they are undergoing treatment.
Following the incidents, security forces rushed to the affected area and cordoned it off. A thorough search and sanitisation operation was launched in and around the locality to ensure no additional explosive devices were present. Authorities are maintaining a strong security presence as investigations continue to determine the source and motive behind the blasts.
