The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday announced cash rewards on information related to as many as 10 members of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and the Manipur Naga People’s Front (MNPF) involved in the ambush that killed seven, including a commanding officer of Assam Rifles and family, in Behiang in Churachandpur district.
The cash reward ranges from Rs 4 lakh to 8 lakh. Those wanted by the agency include two Lt Colonel, seven lieutenants, and one corporal. The accused have been charged under sections 121, 121A, 302, 362 and 34 IPC, sections 10 and 20 of UA(P) Act, section 25(1C) of arms act and section 5 of explosive substances Act.
On November 13 last, the commanding officer of 46 Assam Rifles (AR) Vivplap Tripathi and family along with four jawans of AR were killed after the convoy carrying the officer came under attack by militants near Sialsih village in Churachandpur district.
It is learned that Colonel Tripathi was returning to his base accompanied by his wife and six-year-old son. Six jawans including a havildar, driver of the CO, and 3 members of Quick Reaction team were also injured in the attack.
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and Manipur Naga People’s Front (MNPF) claimed responsibility for the attack.
The Manipur Government decided to hand over the case to the NIA after many, including the Prime Minister and the Defence Minister among others condemned the attack.
The attack was the deadliest the state had witnessed since the 2015 ambush in which 20 Army personnel were killed in Paraolon village in Chandel district of Manipur.
