Violence Erupts in Manipur's Kangpokpi District, Three Civilians Killed
Fresh Violence in Kangpokpi District
A heavily armed individual seen amid damaged structures in Kangpokpi following the outbreak of fresh violence on Friday (Photo: AT)
Imphal, June 5: Violence has once again erupted in the Kangpokpi district of Manipur, resulting in the deaths of three civilians and the destruction of seven homes. This incident occurred early Friday when armed militants reportedly attacked the village of Loibol Khullen, located in the Bungte Chiru Sub-Division.
According to statements from the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) and the Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO) of South West Sadar Hills Block, the assault took place around 4 AM, allegedly carried out by heavily armed members of NSCN-IM, ZUF (K), and ZUF-Kamson.
The victims have been identified as Letkhongam Haokip (34), his wife Tinmary Haokip (30), and Jangminlal Haokip (34).
In addition to the fatalities, the attack resulted in significant property damage, with seven houses set ablaze.
KIM condemned the violence, labeling it a "barbaric act" against defenseless civilians. They emphasized that the intentional killing of innocent villagers and the destruction of their homes represent serious violations of human rights.
The organization extended condolences to the families affected and noted that the Kuki-Zo community is now in mourning. They called on the Government of India and security forces to promptly investigate the incident, apprehend those responsible, and enhance protection for vulnerable communities.
"KIM firmly demands justice for the victims and urges decisive actions to uphold the rule of law and safeguard innocent civilians," the organization stated.
They also warned, “Kuki Inpi Manipur will not be held accountable for any repercussions stemming from this heinous act against our people.”
The KSO South West Sadar Hills Block also condemned the attack, asserting that Loibol Khullen is a historic Kuki ancestral village and claiming that this incident is part of a broader pattern of assaults against Kuki communities.
“The attack on Laibol Khullen further illustrates the targeting of Kukis in their ancestral land by Naga insurgent groups,” they stated.
The student organization criticized the Rongmei Naga Council Manipur, suggesting that a condemnation statement issued shortly after the attack indicated prior knowledge of the planned assault.
They also alleged that Charoipantongba Part-I serves as a hideout for ZUF-K and NSCN (IM) militants, although these claims have not been independently verified.
Demanding immediate action, they urged both State and Central Governments to take swift and lawful measures against the attackers and ensure the safety of the Kuki-Zo population.
The recent killings have escalated tensions in the hill district, with Kuki organizations calling for justice for the victims and enhanced security in at-risk areas.
This incident follows the recent approval by the Centre for the deployment of two battalions of the CRPF's elite Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) in Manipur, aimed at bolstering security and conducting operations against armed groups involved in the state's violence.