Anti-drone systems deployed in Manipur amid surge in attacks

The Assam Rifles has deployed a few anti-drone systems in Manipur and the Central Reserve Police Force has also handed over one anti-drone system to security forces in the ethnic strife-torn state, the Manipur Police said in a statement on Saturday night. Stating that some more “anti-drone guns” are being brought to Manipur by CRPF shortly, the state police added the anti-drone systems were being installed to repel rogue drones that have been used to drop explosives in civilian areas. It added: “The State Police has also started the process for procurement of anti-drone system to enhance its security measures and tackle threats from drones effectively.” Violence in Manipur — which has been besieged by ethnic clashes between Kukis and Meiteis since May 3 last year — has ratcheted up since the beginning of this month, with militants turning to newer technologies such as drones and rockets even as the use of rifles and grenade continued unabated. Meanwhile, the Manipur director general of police, on the Centre’s instructions, formed a committee of five top officials — army’s 57 Mountain divisions lieutenant general, Manipur ADGP, Assam Rifles major general, and inspector generals from CRPF and Border Security Force — on September 2 amid use of drones in recent militant attacks.