Investigators handling the probe into the violent attack on the security convoy of then Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh have taken two additional suspects into custody. The National Investigation Agency apprehended two residents from Churachandpur district in connection with the June 2024 ambush, officials stated on Tuesday. Investigators revealed that the individuals played active roles in orchestrating and assisting the assault on the highway.
Identity of the Accused and Prior Custody
According to official details, the individuals taken into custody have been identified as 44-year-old Jangminlun Singson, who also goes by Franky, residing in Bethel within Churachandpur district, and 21-year-old Thangjoel Haokip, also known as Thangboi, from Gamphajang Tuibong in the same district. Both individuals were already under detention in connection with another separate case being investigated by the central agency. They were formally placed under arrest in this specific proceeding as part of efforts by investigators to dismantle the wider conspiracy surrounding the convoy attack.
The June 2024 Highway Ambush
The armed assault took place on June 10, 2024, as the convoy of the then chief minister was traveling along National Highway-37 in Kangpokpi district. Unidentified armed assailants launched an ambush near K Sinam village, opening fire on the motorcade. Two security personnel sustained grievous injuries during the gunfire, and multiple government vehicles suffered severe damage. While the legal process began with a case registered at New Keithelmanbi police station, the National Investigation Agency subsequently took over the formal investigation on July 11, 2024.
Court Remand and Widening Investigation
The central agency established through its investigation that Singson and Haokip coordinated with other conspirators to plan and facilitate the execution of the assault, with investigators uncovering concrete links connecting them to other associates in the plot. Following their apprehension, the duo was presented before the Special NIA Court in Thoubal, which granted eight days of police custody for interrogation. Officials pointed out that two other suspects were earlier arrested in connection with the case, and ongoing efforts focus on mapping out operational roles, following conspiracy trails, and tracking down remaining accomplices.
