2 killed in clashes between rival NSCN factions

Kohima, May 5 (UNI) At least two NSCN (Unification) cadres were killed and another was reportedly injured when the rival factions of the NSCN engaged in a fierce gun battle at Merapani, along the Assam-Nagaland border, under Bhandari sub-division of Wokha district.

Official sources said here today that the exchange of fire between the NSCN(U) and NSCN-IM continued for more than an hour yesterday when the NSCN(U) cadres attacked a camp of NSCN-IM in a populated area.

The bullets also pierced the walls of the nearby houses. However, there was no civilian casualty.

The NSCN-IM claimed that two NSCN(U) cadres were killed and another injured.

Later, police rushed to the spot and recovered the bodies, the sources added.

Due to the presence of armed cadres in the area, the situation was tense, but under control.

Besides, another gun battle took place between the rival factions of the NSCN early yesterday near Doyang river in the district, towards the Mokokchung side, but no casualty was reported so far.

UNI AS DPM RSA VC1206