Myanmar Refugees Found in Maring Area Despite Strict Immigration Measures: RAMO
GENERAL
Imphal: Following credible reports of a significant number of Myanmar refugees in the Maring areas of Tengnoupal district bordering Myanmar in Manipur, the Rilram Area Maring Organisation (RAMO) conducted an inspection of villages near Border Pillars 82 to 89 and learned of a considerable presence of illegal Myanmarese migrants settlers.
RAMO reported that they visited Chanringphai, Choktong, N Satang, and Sangtong villages within the Lamlong Khunou circle.
The visit was prompted by village chiefs of the areas informing them of their inability to manage the influx of refugees.
During the visit, the RAMO team observed illegal immigrants from Myanmar settling in areas covered by Border Pillars 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, and 89.
Despite the recent suspension of the Free Movement Regime (FMR), these refugees were found moving back and forth across the Indo-Myanmar border with ease during the late hours of the night.
RAMO noted that this illegal cross-border movement is occurring under the watch of the Assam Rifles, whose outpost is situated near the compromised border.
Notably, it appears that the State Government is unaware of th is particular, ongoing illegal migration.
Despite broad acknowledgment that illegal immigration from Myanmar is a key factor in the unprecedented ethnic violence between the KCZ (Kuki-Chin-Zo) and Meitei communities since May 3, a concerning question arising from such situations is whether the paramilitary force responsible for guarding the vulnerable international border is either negligently inattentive or deliberately facilitating cross-border activities?