Imphal: In another disturbing incident of threats and intimidation against professionals in Manipur, armed miscreants attempted to abduct a doctor in the Khangabok area of Thoubal district on Sunday evening.
According to police, the assailants attempted to kidnap Dr Laishram Somen, owner of Sur Hospital in Khangabok, around 8:45 p.m. Fortunately, he escaped after a determined struggle by his family members. Before fleeing, however, the attackers left behind a Chinese-made hand grenade, signalling a warning for the future.
Later that night, a team from Thoubal police station—only a few hundred meters away—arrived at the scene and safely removed the explosive.
In response, local youths gathered on Sunday to block the Asian Highway that runs through the village. Women in the area also organized a sit-in protest, condemning the incident. They voiced concerns over armed groups exploiting the law-and-order situation, targeting people who work tirelessly for the community. Protesters demanded clarification from the responsible groups, warning of further agitation if their call goes unanswered.
Manipur has recently seen a troubling rise in such attacks on professionals, particularly doctors and engineers, often linked to extortion demands. The incident underscores ongoing concerns over law and order in the state, with residents questioning the government’s effectiveness in addressing these violent tactics and restoring security.
