IMPHAL, Nov 26: Tensions escalated in parts of Imphal West district bordering Kangpokpi after a 55-year-old man from the Meitei community went missing for over 24 hours, officials said on Tuesday.
Laishram Kamalbabu Singh, a resident of Loitang Khunou village in Imphal West, left his home on Monday afternoon to report for work at the Leimakhong Army Camp in Kangpokpi district. He has not been seen since, and his mobile phone remains switched off, according to officials.
“A joint search operation by the police and the Army is underway to locate him,” said a police officer. Singh’s family revealed that he worked in menial jobs at the Leimakhong Army Camp, which is approximately 16 km from Imphal and surrounded by Kuki-dominated areas.
This area has been a site of ethnic tensions, with Meiteis fleeing the vicinity of Leimakhong since the onset of violence in May last year. The ethnic conflict has claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands.
Concerned villagers from Loitang Khunou, Singh’s hometown, attempted to march toward Leimakhong to ascertain his whereabouts. However, they were intercepted by security forces near Kanto Sabal to prevent further escalation.
After being stopped, the agitated group resorted to blocking roads with rocks, heightening tensions in the area. “The road to Leimakhong has been barricaded to prevent unauthorized civilian movement,” a police officer stated.
