NSCN(K) cadre killed in factional clash

Kohima Apr 17 (UNI) In continued inter-factional clashes between the rival factions of NSCN, one NSCN(K) cadre was killed in Sirhima village under Dimapur district.

Police today said that about 70 cadres of the rival faction had attacked the NSCN camp in the village yesterday.

NSCN (K) sources claimed that their cadre ''Sergeant Major'' Kihoto Chophi was killed and several houses burnt down in the attack.

The civilians intervened in the clash and requested both the underground groups to withdraw from the area.

Town Council Deputy Chairman S G Hollo said, ''I have asked the district administration to deploy security forces for the safety of the citizens.'' He said seven houses of the village have been razed to the ground.

Meanwhile, inter-factional clashes between the rival factions of the NSCN in Zunheboto town, continued for a third day yesterday and gunfire was exchanged.

The clash started at Natha New village near Zunheboto town on Saturday night, which spread to Zunheboto town on Sunday.

The NSCN-IM claimed that they have killed six cadres of NSCN(K).

However, the NSCN(K) sources said that they have lost only three of their cadres. Sources said that the stand-off still continued and there may be eruption of fresh clashes at any time.

The security forces were able to convince both the factions of the NSCN to vacate the populated areas of Zunheboto town.

In a separate incident, sounds of gunfire were reported in the Jail Colony area of Kohima yesterday and a few NSCN-IM cadres were reportedly injured in the firing. However, there was no official confirmation of any injuries.

UNI