Security Forces Neutralize UKNA Militants in Manipur Operation
Militant Encounter in Churachandpur District
The UKNA camp in a remote village of Manipur's Henglep subdivision after it was busted by security forces. (AT Photo)
Imphal, Sept 6: In a recent operation in Churachandpur district, two members of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA) were killed, and two others sustained injuries during a confrontation with a combined team of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles.
The operation commenced in Phaibong village, located in the Henglep subdivision, based on credible intelligence regarding the existence of a UKNA camp in the vicinity.
As per reports from the Assam Rifles, the security forces initiated the operation on the night of August 29, establishing surveillance on the suspected location. A tactical approach was executed around 5 am on September 2.
At approximately 5:30 am, UKNA militants opened fire indiscriminately, prompting a measured response from the security forces.
The Assam Rifles confirmed via social media that two UKNA militants were neutralized, and two others were injured during the encounter.
Following the engagement, a thorough search of the camp uncovered a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and military supplies. The recovered items included two 5.56-mm MA rifles, an AK-56 rifle, and a 40-mm Lathode gun.
Additionally, security forces seized seven Lathode grenades, 15 AK magazines, 371 rounds for the AK-56, 601 rounds for the MA rifle, and 172 rounds for the SLR, as reported by the Assam Rifles.
Other materials confiscated from the camp comprised 15 combat uniforms, seven ammunition pouches, five backpacks, three combat bags, and five pairs of jungle shoes.
The camp was subsequently destroyed after the search operation, while security forces continued to comb the adjacent jungle areas, according to officials.
It is noteworthy that the UKNA is not part of the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement that involves the central government, the Manipur government, and various Kuki and Zomi armed factions.
This operation is part of ongoing counter-insurgency measures in Manipur, where security forces have intensified their actions against armed groups operating outside the SoO framework.