Justice Delayed, Not Denied: Prime Accused in Deadly Manipur Assam Rifles Ambush Apprehended, Cache of Arms Seized

In a significant development two years after a horrific ambush that claimed the lives of an Assam Rifles Commanding Officer, his family, and four jawans, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has made a pivotal arrest. Narengbam Roshan Singh, also known as Romen, a self-styled 'Captain' and alleged prime accused in the November 2021 attack in Manipur, has been apprehended.

This breakthrough marks a crucial step in bringing justice to the victims and their families.

The deadly incident unfolded on November 13, 2021, in the Churachandpur district of Manipur. Colonel Viplav Tripathi, the Commanding Officer of the 46th Assam Rifles, along with his wife Anuja, their 8-year-old son Abeer, and four valiant personnel from the quick reaction team, were brutally killed when their convoy was ambushed by heavily armed militants.

The attack sent shockwaves across the nation, highlighting the persistent security challenges in the region.

According to NIA officials, Narengbam Roshan Singh, identified as a key operative of the proscribed People's Liberation Army (PLA) and the Manipur Naga People's Front (MNPF), was instrumental in orchestrating the ambush.

Investigations revealed his deep involvement in various terror-related activities, including extortion and recruitment. His role in the 2021 attack reportedly encompassed crucial aspects, from conducting reconnaissance of the target convoy to the procurement of sophisticated arms and ammunition used in the assault.

The arrest of Singh led to a substantial recovery of weaponry, underscoring the militant group's arsenal and the gravity of their operations.

During the operation, NIA teams seized an AK-47 assault rifle, a significant quantity of AK-47 ammunition, a 9mm pistol with its ammunition, a walkie-talkie set, and several Chinese hand grenades. These recoveries are expected to provide further leads into the wider network and operational capabilities of the militant groups.

The NIA had initially taken over the investigation into the ambush on November 14, 2021, a day after the incident.

Since then, the agency has been relentless in its pursuit of those responsible. The apprehension of Narengbam Roshan Singh is a testament to the agency's unwavering commitment to counter-terrorism efforts and its resolve to dismantle terror networks operating in the North-Eastern states. This arrest not only brings a key perpetrator to justice but also sends a strong message to militant groups that such heinous acts will not go unpunished.

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to uncover more details about the conspiracy and to apprehend any remaining individuals involved in this tragic event.

The community, still mourning the loss of the brave soldiers and innocent civilians, now watches with hope as the wheels of justice turn.