Renewed Violence Erupts in Manipur: Three from Kuki Community Killed

Violence Resurfaces in Manipur

Imphal: A new wave of violence has erupted in the troubled regions of Manipur. In a remote hilly village located in the state's Noney district, a fierce gunfight between two armed factions resulted in the tragic deaths of three individuals from the Kuki community.

According to police reports, this violent clash began early Saturday near the Kekru Naga village in Noney district, leading to several hours of intermittent heavy gunfire from both sides. The deceased have been identified as Thanglensang Singson, Thangkhosei Haokip, and Lammingsang Kipjen, all residents of the remote areas of Henglep and Thanlan in Churachandpur district.

Community Outrage and Demands for Justice

Local Kuki civil organizations have clarified that the three victims were serving as village volunteers. Following this incident, the prominent Kuki social organization, 'Kuki Inpi Manipur,' expressed deep outrage over the killings, condemning the act vehemently.

In an official statement, the organization accused Naga militant groups of perpetrating this violent act. They have called upon the government and authorities to take immediate and stringent legal action, hold the perpetrators accountable, and ensure swift justice for the victims. In response to the incident, police and security forces have established a heavy security presence throughout the area.

Discovery of Additional Bodies Amid Rising Tensions

Meanwhile, tensions in the state escalated further when security forces discovered two additional bodies during a joint search operation on Sunday. These two young men had been missing under mysterious circumstances since October 28 from the Kangpokpi district.

According to police, the bodies were recovered following an extensive search operation conducted by a joint team of state police, Assam Rifles, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in the eastern region of National Highway-2.

Identities and Community Response

The missing individuals were identified as Tangginlun Chongloi and Paoginlal Hangsings from Tafou village. In protest against this incident, the local social organization 'Committee on Tribal Unity' (COTU) called for a complete shutdown in Kangpokpi for 48 hours, which later escalated to blockades on highways.

Following the recovery of the bodies, security measures have been intensified in the affected areas, and patrols have been increased to manage any potential unrest.