Fresh Gunfights Erupt In Manipur: Kuki Militants Target Villages

On Saturday night, Manipur witnessed intense gunfights and explosions, reportedly initiated by suspected Kuki militants targeting the villages of Koutruk and Tronglaobi.

Local authorities confirmed the incidents, which have raised concerns over security in the region.

Photo Credit: PTI

Details of the Incidents

The first clash took place around 7 PM in Koutruk Ching Leikai, located in Imphal West district. Police believe Kuki militants employed advanced firearms and bombs during the attack. State forces stationed in the area responded swiftly, leading to a prolonged exchange of gunfire lasting about four hours. Residents reported seeing a drone, suspected to be operated by the militants, which added to their fears of aerial assaults; the village had previously experienced a drone bombing in early September.

A local resident, who requested anonymity, stated, "Villagers fear aerial attacks, as the village experienced a drone bombing in the first week of September. However, the drone was taken down after a few minutes."

Additional Attack in Bishnupur

Simultaneously, another attack unfolded in Tronglaobi, a village about 6 km south of Moirang Police Station in Bishnupur district. At around 9:15 PM, suspected Kuki militants opened fire from the Geljang and Molshang areas. The local police, alongside village volunteers, engaged in a counterattack, resulting in another exchange of gunfire. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in either incident.

Authorities have heightened their security measures in response to the escalating violence. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) is prepared to shoot down unauthorized drones spotted in the vicinity.

Arrests Made

In a related development, two cadres of the banned organization People's Liberation Army were arrested in Manipur's Tengnoupal district. The arrests occurred near border pillar number 87, facilitated by a team from the Assam Rifles. The arrested individuals, identified as N Priyo Singh (21) and S Devjit Singh (21), were subsequently handed over to the Pallel Police Station for further action.

As tensions continue in Manipur, authorities remain vigilant in monitoring the situation and addressing security challenges in the region.