After ambushes, CRPF tells forces in Manipur to use armoured vehicles, avoid sudden deployment
- CRPF has issued new SOPs for troop movement in Manipur after a series of ambushes.
- Forces have been directed to use armoured vehicles and avoid sudden, unplanned deployments.
- Two battalions of the CoBRA commando unit have been deployed to assist in operations.
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has issued strict new standard operating procedures for troop movement in Manipur, following a series of deadly ambushes that have kept the state on edge. The directive mandates the use of armoured vehicles for all patrols and convoy movements, and orders commanders to avoid sudden or unplanned deployments that could be exploited by militants.
New SOPs after deadly attacks
The revised protocols come amid heightened tensions between Naga and Kuki communities in the state. Multiple ambushes on security forces in recent weeks have exposed vulnerabilities in routine movement patterns. Officials said the new guidelines are aimed at reducing predictability and hardening targets.
“Forces have been told to use bulletproof vehicles for all road movements. Sudden deployment without proper reconnaissance is strictly prohibited,” a senior CRPF officer said. The officer added that all troop movements must now be cleared by a senior commander and coordinated with local intelligence units.
CoBRA battalions deployed
To bolster the counter-insurgency capability in the region, the CRPF has deployed two battalions of its elite Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA). These specialised units are trained for jungle warfare and close-quarter combat, and will be used for offensive operations and ambush interdiction.
The CoBRA commandos are undergoing additional training tailored to Manipur’s difficult terrain. Sources said the focus is on improving reaction time during an ambush and enhancing the use of armoured vehicles in combat scenarios.
Search for NSCN-IM cadres sparks violence
The security situation in Manipur remains fragile. In a recent incident, a search operation for armed cadres of the NSCN-IM led to a mob attacking an Assam Rifles camp. The attack underscores the volatility on the ground, where militant groups and ethnic tensions intersect.
Authorities have not officially confirmed the number of casualties from the recent ambushes. The CRPF has not commented on specific operational details, citing security concerns.
100 bulletproof vehicles deployed
As part of the revised strategy, the CRPF has deployed 100 bulletproof vehicles across sensitive districts in Manipur. These vehicles will be used for convoy escorts and routine patrols, particularly in areas with a history of militant activity.
The decision to deploy additional armour was taken after a review of recent attacks, where light vehicles proved vulnerable to improvised explosive devices and small arms fire. The new SOPs also mandate that all vehicles in a convoy maintain a safe distance and carry medical evacuation kits.
Officials said the CRPF is also reviewing its communication protocols to ensure faster response times during an ambush. “The idea is to make every patrol a harder target. We are learning from each incident,” another officer said.
The situation in Manipur remains tense, with security forces bracing for further attacks. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the new measures can restore a degree of normalcy to the region.