2 KNF members killed in Bandarban operation identified

The identities of two members of the Kuki Chin National Front (KNF) killed in a recent armed clash with the army in Ruma Upazila have been confirmed. Among the deceased is Captain Sangmin Bom Prakash Putin (27) of Mualpi Para, who served as the commander of a nine-member KNF armed group. The other victim has been identified as Lal Himsang Bom (25) from Munnuam Para."The law enforcement agencies have stated that the deceased Sangmin Bom was the commander of a 9-member team of the KNF armed group.

Ruma Police Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Sohrawardy confirmed that the bodies were handed over to the families after post-mortem examinations at Bandarban Sadar Hospital on Friday. The families have since completed the burial rites.

The gunfight has left Ruma Upazila tense, with residents of remote areas such as Mualpi Para and Lairunpi Para living in fear. Security forces have intensified patrols and established checkpoints across the region, including popular tourist destinations like Bogalek and Keokradong Peak, to ensure public safety. Special measures have also been implemented for the protection of tourists traveling through the area.

The army launched the operation in the early hours of Thursday in the Naithong Hill area near Taidung Jhiri, approximately 16 kilometers from the midpoint between Poly Prangsa and Mualpi Para in Paindu Union. Acting on intelligence, soldiers encountered KNF militants who opened fire and attempted to escape. A heavy exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting in the deaths of two militants clad in KNF uniforms.

During a search of the site, the army recovered three submachine guns, one rifle, eight magazines, ammunition, KNF uniforms, extortion receipts, and various other militant paraphernalia.