H Heirok (Manipur), July 5 : Defying militant threats, villagers of Heirok in Manipur's Thoubal District, have decided to go ahead with Special Police Officers (SPO's) training.
  Around 200 people have joined the force that has been created to counter militancy in the area. "We have taken this up not to gun down militants, but to protect Heirok village, as we have been unhappy with the situation lately," said Kh. Ibomcha Singh, a selected SPO. Kh. Ibochouba Singh, a villager said, "The reason for demanding arms and going ahead for this is to protect our land. We want to protect ourselves, our women and children from the terrorist activities of militants groups. That is why, Heirok villagers are taking this training to protect the village." The demand for guns to protect themselves came following the killing of three villagers a month ago by militants. In response to the people's demand, the government came up with the idea of SPOs that would train the people to deal with underground groups. "From the beginning, they have been requesting for arms from the government so that they can protect themselves. The Government has agreed to it, and since they are willing, we have taken necessary action for that," said Clay Khongsai, the Superintendent of Police, Thoubal. (ANI) © 2007 ANI TAGS: South-Asia 
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