Two killed in shootout in Manipur

Imphal, July 23 (ANI): A woman passer-by and a man, who is suspected to be a militant, died during a shootout in a crowded market area of Imphal on Thursday.

The incident took place around 10.30 a.m. when an unidentified armed militant with an automatic weapon, pursued by a team of security personnel, opened indiscriminate fire.

In retaliation, the security personnel opened fire and chased down the armed militant, who was fleeing from the crowded market place, firing several rounds of shots.

Five more persons were also believed to have been injured in this firing.

Reportedly, the militant armed with an AK-47 tried to lay siege of a shopping complex and take hostages.

"When I arrived here, I saw an injured victim with her child on the road. Her nose was bleeding profusely," said Manikhombi Devi, an eyewitness.

The shootout created panic in the market area, with many shoppers downing their shutters. (ANI)