A group of thirty-two young bikers faced a violent mob attack in Manipur's Shangkai village on Wednesday evening, leaving two riders injured and multiple motorcycles damaged. The incident occurred when the youths were returning from visiting the famous Mova Cave in Hungpung village, Ukhrul district.
Violent Confrontation in Shangkai Village
The trouble began when the biking group, which had embarked on a journey to promote positive activities among youth, stopped at a local shop in Shangkai village. According to police reports filed under Litan Police Station jurisdiction, villagers suddenly confronted the bikers without prior warning.
One of the riders present during the incident described how the situation rapidly escalated. The confrontation began with villagers approaching the group, followed by an announcement over a loudspeaker that triggered a sudden attack using stones and sticks. The bikers found themselves under assault without adequate time to react or defend themselves.
Conflicting Accounts of the Incident
Local villagers presented a different version of events, claiming that the bikers had created significant disturbance in the area. According to village sources, the riders were revving their motorcycle engines loudly and speaking in raised voices, which prompted local residents to confront them about their behavior.
The situation took a more serious turn when, according to villager accounts, a motorcycle allegedly hit an elderly local resident. This incident served as the trigger for the violent escalation that followed, with villagers beginning to pelt stones at the bikers and detaining nine members of the group.
Aftermath and Police Intervention
During the chaotic scene that unfolded, nine bikers were detained by the villagers while the remaining members of the group managed to escape the violent confrontation. Several motorcycles sustained significant damage during the attack, with some rendered unusable.
The detained bikers were eventually released following intervention by local police authorities and personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF). The timely intervention prevented further escalation of violence and ensured the safe release of all detained individuals.
The incident highlights the growing tensions in the region and raises questions about safety for travelers and adventure enthusiasts visiting remote areas. The biking expedition, which was organized with the positive intention of promoting constructive activities among youth, ended in violence that left two participants injured and the entire group traumatized.
