Four killed in Manipur internal rebel group clash

At least four people were killed after unidentified armed miscreants ambushed a vehicle at Churachandpur district in Manipur, reports Hindustan Times.

The incident took place in K. Mongjang village around 1.00pm on Monday (July 1).

It is believed to be a result of ongoing factional rivalry among Kuki militant groups, said the local authority.

Three individuals travelling in the car were killed on the spot, while a woman passerby caught in the crossfire later succumbed to her injuries, police said.

People familiar with the matter said that among the deceased was Thangboi Haokip alias Thahpi, the deputy commander-in-chief of the Kuki National Organisation/Kuki National Army (KNO/KNA), a prominent Kuki militant outfit.

No militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and authorities have not yet confirmed the identity of the assailants. However, police suspect that the United Kuki National Army (UKNA), a splinter group known to have tense relations with the KNO/KNA, was behind the attack.

Police officials familiar with the matter said that several empty 5.56 mm ammunition casings were recovered from the scene, indicating the use of sophisticated weapons. Several bullet marks were found on the car.

The killing of a top commander has sparked fears of retaliatory violence, prompting authorities to step up security in the area. Investigations are currently underway.