IMPHAL, May 19: Suspected NSCN-IM cadres and BSF personnel were engaged in a heavy exchange of fire at a place in Heirok Part II at around 10.30 this morning after the Naga militants launched an attack using rocket propelled grenades on the security personnel who were on foot patrol.
According to sources, the gun fight took place near Chingol Melei Tampak Tourist Centre when a ROP (road opening party) team of 54th Bn, BSF D-coy stationed at Litan Makhong Chingdompok was making its movement along the adjacent road. As soon as they reached the spot, the militants unleashed RPG shells towards the security men from the hillside and followed it with several rounds of gunfire.
The BSF replied the militants effectively returning the attack using 2-inch mortar propellant among other weapons. The gun battle lasted for more than five minutes, after which the militants retreated towards Karongthel in Chandel district. However, there was no report of any casualty on either side.
The powerful RPG shells exploded at three separate points about 15 meters apart making intense impact on the ground and digging craters of about one meter in diameter each.
A team of Heirok police led by officer-in-charge RK Eden arrived at the spot along with a unit of district commando. The state police personnel and paramilitary cordoned the area and conducted a joint combing operation. After a while, the commander of 54th Bn BSF too reached the place for spot inspection.