Manipur toll rises to 15, police appeal for calm

Imphal, Mar 19 (UNI) Despite imposition of prohibitory orders a non-Manipuri was today shot dead at Kumbi in Bishenpur district, raising the toll in the spate of violence against outsiders to 15.

The aggression against people from outside the state was spreading to all the four valley districts - Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal and now Bishenpur.

On March 17, seven persons were gunned down at Imphal West and yesterday five more were shot dead at Imphal East and two at Thoubal district.

A concerned chief minister has condemned the killings and assured the people of taking immediate action against the culprits.

Mr O Ibobi Singh said all available forces had been called to maintain vigil and check recurrence of violence.

The Police appealed to the people not to pay heed to rumours and maintain calm.

They further said prohibitory orders will continue to remain in force in all the four districts from dusk to dawn.

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