Manipur IED blast: NIA files chargesheet against 2, including key conspirator

The accused identified as Seiminlun Gangte alias Minlun and Mohammed Noor Hussain alias Tomba alias Mohammed Nur Hasan were found involved in the blast that took place on a bridge, adjoining Phougakchao Ikhai Awang Leikai and Kwakta at 7.10 pm on June 21, 2023.

They have been charged under various sections of Indian Penal Code, Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), Explosive Substances Act 1908, and Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984.

The explosion, triggered by a bomb-fitted Mahindra Scorpio SUV, damaged the bridge, electric pole, electrical assets and surrounding houses.

On June 24, the Manipur government transferred the Kwakta blast to the NIA citing the alleged involvement of insurgents operating in the state and across the border.

The agency stated that after his arrest on October 16, 2023, Noor Hussain, revealed that he had driven the IED-borne Mahindra Scorpio and parked it over the Kwakta bridge, while his co-passenger initiated the detonating mechanism of the IED. Seiminlun Gangte, was arrested on November 2 and was later identified as the key conspirator.

As per NIA investigations, Gangte conspired with his accomplices to blow off the bridge with the intent to strike terror and to cut off the movement of security forces, people and supply of commodities. Hence, Gangte had recruited his associates for reconnaissance of the targeted area and to execute the actual explosion, the sleuths said.

Investigations are on to trace other accused involved in the case, the agency said.