A truck driver transporting essential goods from Jiribam to Imphal was abducted by unidentified armed men near New Kaiphundai in Tamenglong district along National Highway-37, sparking widespread panic and condemnation across Manipur.

The abduction occurred despite a CRPF escort accompanying the vehicle convoy. According to police sources, suspected militants forcibly took the driver while the truck was en route to Imphal. Authorities have withheld the driver’s identity due to ongoing security concerns.

The incident has raised serious concerns over the safety of transport personnel and the efficacy of existing security measures along the vital highway.

In response, Manipur Police and central security forces launched intensive search operations in the surrounding areas for a second consecutive day on Thursday. Security forces have also intensified area domination operations across vulnerable hill and valley regions.

The abduction triggered strong reactions from local civil society organisations. Several Rongmei community bodies—including the Rongmei Naga Council Manipur, Rongmei Naga Luh Phuam, Rongmei Naga Youth Organisation, and Rongmei Naga Students’ Union Manipur—along with VACC members, village chairmen, youth clubs, and church leaders staged protest demonstrations demanding the driver’s immediate release.

Protesters held placards reading “Stop Kidnapping,” “We Want Peace,” and “Release the Kidnapped Person,” warning that such incidents could disrupt regional harmony and trust.

The Kaiphundai Village Authority, Kaiphundai Luh Phwam, Youth Club, and Students Union also condemned the act, calling it an attack on the state’s essential supply chain and public safety. They urged law enforcement agencies to arrest those responsible and ensure the driver’s safe return.

Meanwhile, police confirmed that 123 trucks were safely escorted along NH-37 and that 110 security checkpoints have been activated across the state. No arrests have been made so far.