The recent surge in violence in Manipur has seen long-range rockets and drones dropping bombs, leading to speculation that the alleged Kuki fighters have acquired advanced weaponry, possibly from across the border. However, sources within the security establishment clarify that neither the drones nor the rockets used in these attacks are of military grade.
According to sources in the Manipur police, the drones utilized for bombings are standard commercial models readily available in the market. The rockets involved in recent attacks are locally assembled rather than sophisticated military-grade equipment.
While the use of drones, assault rifles, and rockets is not new in Manipur’s ongoing ethnic conflict, recent attacks have demonstrated a significant increase in the effectiveness of these weapons. Previously, drones were mainly used for surveillance, while short-range rockets and mortars have been regularly fired during the conflict.
A notable incident occurred last Friday when a suspected militant rocket attack targeted the residence of former Chief Minister Mairembam Koireng Singh in Moirang. The attack resulted in one death and five injuries. Moirang, located in the Meitei-dominated Bishnupur district, is a considerable distance from where the rocket was believed to have been fired. The rocket traveled approximately 3 km before hitting the former CM’s house.
This attack followed a bomb assault on Meitei-dominated Koutruk village in Imphal West district on September 1, which resulted in two fatalities. Drones were used to drop an estimated 30-40 bombs, causing extensive damage in the village.
Sources indicate that the rockets and bombs involved are crude. The rockets, though significant in size, are made from locally available materials. A senior Manipur police officer explained, “The rockets can weigh up to 30 kg and measure about 10 ft in length. They can travel up to 5 km and are made using pipes filled with gunpowder and an ignition thread in the tail. The head of the rocket contains 2-3 kg of explosives and shrapnel. It operates similarly to Diwali fireworks, with the head exploding upon impact.”
The rocket used in the recent attack on the former CM’s house was not guided. Another security officer noted, “These rockets are not guided. The fighters aim them by placing them on an inclined surface. As a result, the rockets can fall anywhere and explode unpredictably.”