Tear gas fired to disperse protestors in Manipur

Imphal, Apr 7 (UNI) Police resorted to firing in several places of Manipur to stop bandh supporters from blocking roads during the 13-hour bandh which started At 0500 hrs.

The Joint Action committee (JAC) had called the bandh to protest the killing of three youths--Sapam Paka (27) , Wahengbam Bobo (28) and Thangkhenmung (27), by Imphal West District Police Commandos at Kwakeithel here yesterday.

However, the bodies of the three persons were not yet claimed by their family members, police said.

Imphal West District SP Clay Khongsai said a team of Imphal West District Police Commandos asked three persons riding a bike to stop.

When they refused the commandos lobbed hand grenades and in the firing they were killed.

Another unexploded hand-grenade was also recovered .

The Leimarol Leishem Yaipha Thouram Kannalup, Kwakeithel Heinoukhongnembi Nongshaba Lambi (Puthabi) Meira Paibi, a women's organisation, however, claimed the three were 'innocent' and killed in a 'cold-blooded' manner.

All inter state bus services were cancelled and most educational and business establishments remained closed.

UNI