5 NSCN-IM cadres killed at Chalkot

Kohima, Sep 21: At least five NSCN-IM cadres were reportedly killed and several injured when they exchanged gunfire with NSCN(K) rebels at Old Chalkot village in Nagaland's Peren district.

In a release issued here today the NSCN(K) accused the rival faction of launching the attack yesterday on their camp located at Old Chalkot.

''We beat back the attackers, killing five cadres and injuring others in the 10-hour long gun battle,'' the release claimed.

It also claimed that the NSCN(K) seized a sniper rifle and M21 weapons from the slain cadres.

The bodies were first taken to Jalukie police station where the NSCN-IM rebels prayed for the deceased. The bodies were then taken to CFMC (Cease-fire Monitoring Cell) office of NSCN-IM at Dimapur.

However, the report could not be officially confirmed.

Meanwhile, a report from Imphal said the NSCN(K) had urged the NSCN(IM) not to harass the people. The information and publicity secretary in charge of the Zeliangrong region of the NSCN(K) said that on September 17 NSCN(IM) cadres had allegedly fired at Kanbihang village in Manipur's Tamenglong district.

There was another firing incident two days later at Kajinglong village, Tamenglong in which a woman was injured.

It further charged the NSCN(IM) cadres of levying fines on villagers who help the NSCN(K).

The outfit further wanted to know whether the ceasefire between the government of India and the NSCN(IM) was extended to Manipur.

UNI