Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Tuesday informed that nine individuals, including a Myanmar national, have been apprehended in connection with the assassination of SDPO Ch Anand Singh in Moreh on October 31, 2023.
Responding to a calling attention motion moved by Congress MLA K Meghachandra on the last day of the 5th session of the 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, CM Biren also condemned the cowardly act.
CM Biren said that SDPO Ch Anand was fatally shot with a sniper while clearing the ground for a newly constructed helipad and termed the act as cowardly.
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He also explained that the helipad was imperative for security reasons as state forces frequently faced ambush threats from militants while utilizing the helipad within the Assam Rifles complex en route to the police station. He underscored the government’s serious approach toward apprehending Ch Anand’s cold-blooded killers, mobilizing all available forces, including Assam Rifles and the army, in pursuit of the militants.
Regrettably, despite reinforcements, approximately 18 state force vehicles were ambushed midway, resulting in the death of one police personnel and injuries to eight others.
Assam Rifles troops intervened to rescue the stranded police team; nine state police vehicles managed to reach Moreh and contributed to the search for the militants.
Among the nine arrested suspects is a Burmese (Myanmarese) national, prompting the involvement of the NIA due to external elements’ presence in the case, the CM said.
In response to newspaper reports linking the arrested individuals, including Philip Khaikholal Khongsai, an ex-serviceman of the Assam Regiment, and Hemkholal Mate,/the BJP Mandal President of Tengnoupal district, with various affiliations, the chief minister clarified that the terrorist act was not politically motivated.
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Highlighting the government’s commitment to boosting the morale of state forces engaged in maintaining law and order, the Chief Minister announced the appointment of late SDPO Ch Anand’s son as an ASI in the police department, with opportunities for further promotion based on qualifications.
Additionally, recognizing the dedication of state police forces, the government has increased the salaries of CDOs by Rs 5000 and Rs 3000 for those serving in red zone areas.
Addressing the resettlement of displaced individuals from Moreh and other areas, the chief minister assured that it remains a top priority, with security measures supervised by the Union Home Minister.
