In a major development, Manipur police, along with Assam Rifles and local security forces, have arrested Khomdram Ojit Singh, a key suspect in the September 19 ambush that killed two Assam Rifles personnel in Bishnupur district. The arrest took place in Kameng area of Imphal West district during a pre-dawn special operation.
The ambush occurred near Nambol Sabal Leikai, roughly eight kilometres from Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, when a convoy of the 33rd Assam Rifles was returning from Imphal. Militants opened heavy fire on the convoy, resulting in the death of Rifleman Ranjit Kumar Kashyap (29) from Chhattisgarh and another soldier, while five others sustained injuries. The incident sparked significant concerns over escalating insurgent activity in the region.
Following a detailed investigation and intelligence inputs, security forces tracked the movements of suspected militants to the Kameng area. At around 1:00 am on September 24, a coordinated operation involving the District Police of Imphal West, Bishnupur Police, the 33 Assam Rifles, and other specialised units was launched. Khomdram Ojit Singh, alias Keilal (47), was apprehended during this raid.
Singh admitted to being a former bailed-out member of the banned People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and revealed ongoing involvement with the insurgent group. Authorities said his arrest was a significant step toward dismantling militant networks in the state.
Based on Singh’s disclosures, security personnel recovered a substantial cache of weapons and ammunition allegedly used in the September 19 attack. The recovered arsenal includes an A4 rifle, multiple rounds of ammunition, and other combat materials, which are now being analysed to trace their origin and supply chain.
Manipur Police Commissioner stated, “This arrest reflects the coordinated intelligence and operational capabilities of our forces. It is a strong message to insurgent groups that such violent acts will not go unpunished.” He further emphasised the continued commitment to maintaining law and order in the region.
The incident and subsequent arrest underline the persistent security challenges faced in northeast India, where insurgent activities have long been a matter of concern. Analysts suggest that targeted operations like this arrest could weaken militant groups, but sustained intelligence and community cooperation remain critical for long-term peace.
The arrested suspect has been handed over to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) for further interrogation, and authorities are examining possible links to other attacks in the region.
This arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation of the September 19 ambush and is expected to bolster security measures across Manipur in the coming weeks.
