Tensions Rise in Manipur's Kangpokpi District Following Gunfire Incident
Gunfire Erupts in Langka Village
Armed individuals, identified by local residents as village volunteers, at Langka village in Manipur's Kangpokpi, on Saturday. (AT Photo)
Imphal, June 13: New tensions emerged in the Kangpokpi district of Manipur on Saturday morning after reports of gunfire from Langka, also referred to as Taniuluang, a village inhabited by the Zeliangrong Naga community, raising alarms among locals and authorities.
Local sources indicated that the shooting occurred around 8:40 AM. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or fatalities at the time of this report, although some livestock belonging to villagers were reportedly killed during the incident.
In response to the gunfire, the Langka Village Authority released a statement denouncing the attack and expressing serious concerns regarding the ongoing security situation in the region.
The authority accused members of the Kuki National Front-Progressive (KNF-P), a group operating under a Suspension of Operations agreement, along with individuals from the non-SoO Kuki National Front, of being involved in the attack.
They voiced fears about potential similar assaults on nearby villages and urged government and security forces to implement immediate preventive actions.
The village authority called for a comprehensive, unbiased, and timely investigation by the state government to identify those responsible and ensure appropriate legal measures are taken. They also appealed to all parties to exercise restraint and strive for peace and stability in the area.
Security forces have been alerted and are reportedly monitoring the situation closely.
It was claimed that firearms and explosives were utilized during the attack, instilling fear and panic among the local population. However, the allegations made by the village authority have not been independently verified.
No official confirmation regarding the identities of those involved has been provided by security agencies, and there has been no immediate response from the groups mentioned in the statement.
This incident occurs amidst rising tensions in Manipur, following the discovery of the bodies of six missing Naga men and ongoing security operations throughout the state.
Authorities are expected to evaluate the situation and provide further updates after verifying the facts.