IMPHAL | Two personnel of the Assam Rifles were killed after unidentified armed assailants allegedly ambushed a con- voy of the 40 Assam Rifles near Nungshang Kong in Manipur’s Ukhrul  district on Sunday, triggering a major security operation in the area.

According to sources, the attack occurred while the convoy was moving through the remote stretch near Nungshang Kong. The assailants reportedly opened fire on the convoy, critically injuring two Assam Rifles personnel.

Efforts were initially made to evacuate the injured soldiers to Imphal for advanced medical treatment. However, as their condition worsened,they were taken to the Assam Rifles camp at Sangshak in Ukhrul district,where both later succumbed to their injuries.

The incident marks another serious security challenge in Manipur, where security forces continue to maintain heightened vigilance amid ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in conflict affected areas.

Following the attack, security forces launched an extensive search and combing operation to track down those responsible. Additional forces have reportedly been deployed in the  area, while investigations are under- way to determine the identity of the attackers and the motive behind the assault.

Condemning the incident, Manipur Home Minister K. Govindas Singh expressed deep concern over the reported attack on the Assam Rifles convoy.In a social media post issued before the deaths of the two personnel were confirmed, the minister said such acts of violence undermine efforts to restore normalcy and harmony in the state. “Such incidents only disrupt the  peace and harmony that we all aspire to uphold.

My thoughts and prayers are with the injured personnel, and I wish them a speedy and complete recovery,” he stated. The minister also expressed confidence that security agencies would take all necessary steps to identify and apprehend those involved in the attack in accordance with the law.

He urged the public to remain united in supporting peace, security and stability across Manipur. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement identifying the vic tims. Security forces remain on high alert as search operations continue in and around the attack site.