Imphal: An explosion was reported at a fuel station in Manipur’s Bishnupur district after unidentified miscreants hurled a bomb at the premises on Thursday night, officials said on Friday.
According to officials, the attackers, who were riding a two-wheeler, threw the explosive device at Elidas fuel station located at Moirang Thana Leikai around 8 pm, triggering an explosion. No injuries were reported in the incident.
Police have launched an investigation into the attack and are scrutinising CCTV footage from the surrounding area to identify those involved.
The incident comes amid growing concern among fuel station owners in Manipur over security threats. Last month, petrol pump operators had warned of a possible shutdown after receiving repeated extortion-related threats.
ALSO READ: Manipur: Gunfight breaks out in Kangpokpi; security forces deployed
In a statement issued on December 22, the Manipur Petroleum Dealers Association said that despite submitting a memorandum to the Governor highlighting frequent bomb threats, extortion attempts and exorbitant monetary demands, the administration had failed to take effective action.
Last month, Manipur Police assured enhanced security for fuel retail outlets across the state amid growing extortion threats faced by petrol pump dealers.
The police department assured that security arrangements at retail outlets would be reviewed and strengthened, including the vetting of all employees. Mobile police teams will also be deployed at strategic locations, while anti-extortion mechanisms will be intensified to counter threats against fuel stations.
ALSO READ: Manipur police steps up security at fuel outlets amid extortion threats
The Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity said dealers are facing an extremely critical situation due to extortion and bomb threats, adding that they would be left with no option but to shut down operations if authorities fail to take effective steps by December 28.
