SANSA Condemns Armed Interception of Passenger Bus by Kuki Militants in Ukhrul, Manipur

On September 8, Kuki militants allegedly intercepted a passenger bus near Molnom in Ukhrul district, Manipur, reportedly stopping the vehicle, seizing passengers’ mobile phones for inspection and firing blank rounds which caused panic among travelers. Local student bodies and Naga organizations — including SANSA (Sagalmang Naga Students’ Association) — strongly condemned the incident and urged immediate action to protect civilians and bring the perpetrators to justice. Eyewitnesses say phones were inspected and later returned; there were no widely reported casualties.

1. Time and place: The interception reportedly happened between about 7:30 and 8:00 a.m. on September 8, along the Sinakeithei–Imphal route near Molnom village in Ukhrul district.
2. The interception: Witnesses say armed militants stopped the passenger bus and forced passengers to surrender their mobile phones, which were inspected for photos or video that might reveal militant positions or camps. The passengers were reportedly terrorized by blank firing that created chaos and panic.
3. Aftermath: According to several reports, the devices were returned later when nothing incriminating was found, and there were no immediate public reports of injuries or fatalities arising from the stop. Local student groups and civic organizations promptly condemned the act and demanded swift action from authorities.

FAQs

Q1: Where exactly did the bus interception happen and when?
A1: Reports place the incident near Molnom village on the Sinakeithei–Imphal route in Ukhrul district, occurring around 7:30–8:00 a.m. on September 8. Multiple local outlets reported this timing and location.

Q2: Who condemned the incident and what did they ask for?
A2: The Sagalmang Naga Students’ Association (SANSA) publicly condemned the armed interception, calling it unacceptable and urging authorities to take immediate, stringent action to bring perpetrators to justice and ensure civilian safety. Other Naga and student bodies also issued similar condemnations.

Q3: Were passengers harmed or injured during the stop?
A3: Available reports describe panic and blank firing, and note that passengers’ phones were inspected and later returned. There were no widely reported casualties in the immediate aftermath according to the news coverage.

Q4: Why did militants reportedly seize passengers’ phones?
A4: Journalistic accounts suggest the militants were checking phones for photographs or videos of militant camps or activities — a step aimed at protecting their locations or controlling the flow of information.

Q5: What should local residents do to stay safe if they need to travel this route?
A5: Stay informed via verified local news, avoid unnecessary travel during high-tension times, share travel plans with family or friends, and report suspicious activity to authorities. If available, travel in groups and follow any advisories issued by local police or community organizations.

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