Manipur mob destroys Assam Rifles makeshift camp following timber transport dispute

Mob destroys Assam Rifles makeshift camp in Manipur's Kamjong district

A mob attacked and destroyed a temporary Assam Rifles camp in the Hongbei area of Manipur’s Kamjong district on Saturday.

The assault followed accusations of harassment and restrictions on timber transport. The attackers were reportedly from the Kasom Khullen block, which is a Naga-majority region.

Tensions rose on Saturday when Assam Rifles personnel allegedly stopped the transportation of timber meant for house construction in Kasom Khullen, according to officials.

Officials said Assam Rifles personnel used tear gas and fired shots into the air to break up the protest.

The mob subsequently destroyed the paramilitary force's makeshift camp and demanded their removal from the area.

No casualties were reported during the incident.

The Assam Rifles is among the central forces deployed across different areas of Manipur, which has been embroiled in ethnic violence between the Kukis and Meiteis. The unrest has led to more than 250 fatalities and displaced thousands since May 2023.