IMPHAL | Y Khemchand Singh on Friday strongly condemned the ambush on a convoy transporting essential commodities along National Highway-202 in Ukhrul district that left a truck driver dead and a police constable injured.

The attack took place between Leingangching and TM Kasom under Litan Police Station when suspected militants allegedly opened fire on vehicles carrying rice supplied by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) along the Imphal-Ukhrul route.

Expressing condolences over the death of the truck driver, reportedly a resident of West Bengal, the Chief Minister described the ambush as a “cowardly act” intended to disrupt the supply of essential goods and worsen the already fragile security situation in the area.

Singh said drivers transporting essential commodities play a critical role in maintaining uninterrupted supplies across the state and that targeting them was an attempt to spread fear and instability.

The Chief Minister further alleged that vested interest groups could be behind the attack with the intention of undermining the government’s efforts to restore peace and normalcy in Manipur.

He also wished a speedy recovery to the police constable who sustained bullet injuries during the incident.

Following the ambush, security forces launched search and cordon operations in nearby areas to identify and apprehend those responsible. Authorities have assured that the perpetrators will be brought to justice in accordance with the law.

The incident has once again raised concerns over the safety of transport operators and security of key supply routes in the hill districts, prompting heightened vigilance along the highway corridor.