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Manipur: Bomb explodes near Imphal International Airport; KCP claims responsibility
An explosion occurred near Imphal International Airport in Manipur around 11:55 am on May 3, 2026, with CCTV indicating a planted device around 11:34 am. The Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) claimed responsibility, calling it a 'smart IED' against bandh-imposers and alleged airport cargo smuggling; no casualties were reported. Separately, on May 2, 2026, police said security forces recovered an 8 kg IED, a rifle, and ammunition, and arrested a PREPAK-PRO cadre.
Why It Matters
The incidents underscore ongoing security and militant activity in Manipur amid ethnic tensions, with authorities investigating the blast and broader insurgent activity in the region.
Timeline
2 Events
Manipur: Bomb explodes near Imphal International Airport; KCP claims responsibility
May 3, 2026
An explosion was reported near Imphal International Airport in Manipur near the gate of a Territorial Army camp around 11:55 am on Sunday. CCTV footage suggested the bomb was planted around 11:34 am near the camp’s main gate, about 1 km from the airport along NH-2, Tiddim Road, under Singjamei police station. The person was seen fleeing toward Bishnupur district on a blue scooter; a case was registered at the concerned police station. The Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), a banned outfit, claimed responsibility in a statement signed by M. Punshiba Meitei, its information and public relations secretary, describing the device as a 'smart IED' targeting those imposing bandh and alleged airport cargo smuggling. The blast was also described as a warning to airline managers at Imphal airport. No casualties were reported.
Manipur: Police recover 8kg IED, weaponry; PREPAK-PRO cadre arrested
May 2, 2026
A police statement said security forces recovered an 8kg improvised explosive device, one 12 bore rifle, and five rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition during search operations in vulnerable areas of Manipur. It also said an active woman cadre of the banned outfit PREPAK-PRO, identified as Longjam Jenevi alias Thoithoi Devi (34), was arrested from Thongjao Mayai Leikai along the Indo-Myanmar Sugnu Road under Waikhong police station, Kakching district.