Imphal, Sept. 24: In a major breakthrough, security forces in Manipur apprehended the prime accused behind the deadly ambush on Assam Rifles personnel that took place on 19th September 2025 at Sabal Leikai, Nambol in Bishnupur district.
According to an official release from the Office of the Director General of Police (DGP), Manipur, the operation was launched in the early hours of 24th September 2025 following credible intelligence inputs about the movement of militants in the Kameng area of Imphal West district. A joint team comprising Imphal West and Bishnupur District Police, personnel from the 33 Assam Rifles, and other security agencies carried out the coordinated action.
The Arrest
During the operation, the joint team apprehended Khomdram Ojit Singh alias Keilal (47), son of late Kh. Mani Singh of Awang Leikinthabi Awang Leikai in Imphal West district.
Preliminary interrogation revealed that Singh is a bailed-out member of the proscribed People's Liberation Army (PLA), who admitted that he continued to work for the outfit despite his earlier arrest in April 2007.
Direct Role in Ambush
Investigators confirmed Singh’s direct role in the 19th September ambush. On that day, at around 5:30 pm, militants targeted personnel of the 33 Assam Rifles near Sabal Leikai, Nambol. Singh, identified as one of the prime attackers, opened fire on the troops before fleeing towards the Loktak lake area. He later concealed arms and ammunition at an undisclosed location.
Major Recovery of Arms and Ammunition
Acting on Singh’s disclosure, security forces recovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition, including:
• 1 A4 rifle with 4 magazines
• 1 HK rifle with 2 magazines
• 2 AK rifles with 5 magazines
• 1 INSAS rifle with 3 magazines
• 3 lathode shells
• 170 rounds of AK ammunition
• 216 rounds of M16 ammunition
• 67 rounds of INSAS ammunition
• 1 mobile handset, a wallet, and an Aadhaar card
Officials noted that the recovery of such a large quantity of arms underlines the scale of the ambush conspiracy and the preparedness of the insurgent group.
Ongoing Investigation
The arrested militant is being subjected to detailed examination, during which certain leads have already emerged. Based on this, follow-up raids are being carried out to trace and apprehend other suspects involved in planning and executing the ambush.
The DGP’s office expressed confidence that the coordinated operations will help dismantle the network behind the attack.
Background
The ambush of 19th September had sent shockwaves across Manipur, as it underscored the continuing threat of insurgent activities in the region. Though casualties were averted due to the quick response of Assam Rifles personnel, the incident highlighted the militants’ access to sophisticated weaponry.
ALSO READ: Two Assam Rifles Personnel Killed, Several Injured in Nambol Ambush
Official Statement
The DGP’s office, in its release, reiterated the commitment of Manipur Police and security forces to neutralize threats to peace and security. “The apprehension of the prime accused is a significant step forward. The investigation is progressing, and efforts are on to nab other culprits involved,” the statement said.
