An unruly mob resorted to stone-pelting, arson and vandalism at an Assam Rifles camp in Senapati town in Manipur on the intervening night of July 14 and 15.

According to official sources, the Assam Rifles launched an area domination patrol and search operation based on credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of armed cadres in the general area of Makuilongdi, 2 km west of the designated NSCN (IM) camp at Oklong.

The intelligence inputs, as well as social media posts, indicated the movement of armed cadres outside designated camps while carrying weapons and wearing uniforms, in apparent violation of established ceasefire ground rules.

Simultaneously, the Ceasefire Monitoring Group was formally informed of the reported violations and the associated security concerns, sources said.

During the operation, Assam Rifles columns approaching Makuilongdi and Oklong villages were obstructed by local residents.

The troops exercised maximum restraint and engaged with local representatives, assuring them that the operation was aimed solely at maintaining security and peace in the area and that the columns would not enter any village without the consent of the authorities.

As tensions escalated, reports emerged around 9 pm on Tuesday of a large crowd gathering in Senapati town and preparing to march towards the Assam Rifles camp.

Despite the withdrawal of the columns, a large mob reached the camp at around 9.30 pm, pelting stones, damaging property and attempting to set parts of the premises on fire.

Sources within the security paraphernalia said minimum force was employed to disperse the violent crowd and prevent further escalation, in coordination with Manipur Police, by firing blank rounds and tear-gas grenades.

The Senapati Police and CRPF were immediately deployed to assist in restoring law and order.

Later, while retreating, a section of the mob vandalised and damaged Assam Rifles vehicles. One light vehicle was set ablaze, while two trucks were overturned and damaged. A civil car was also reportedly burnt during the violence.

Through the coordinated efforts of the security forces, Manipur Police and CRPF personnel, the situation was brought under control and the crowd fully dispersed by midnight.

The situation in Senapati is at present peaceful and under control. No injuries or casualties were sustained by the local population or security force personnel, official sources said.

Efforts to address concerns and maintain communal harmony have been undertaken with civil society organisations and district authorities, they added.