Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: Security forces deployed over 500 personnel to Manipur’s Noney district early Thursday following a lethal gunfight between rival factions. The operation started at 3:30 am in Taodaijang and Kekru Naga villages. It involved Manipur Police, the Central Reserve Police Force, CoBRA, and Assam Rifles. The violence began at 1:55 am Wednesday, roughly 19 km east of Nungba Police Station.
Three people died in the clash. The ZUF-Jenchui faction identified two victims as members M. Thaimei and G. Kamson. The third victim, Aihung Khumba, lived in Pungmon Chingchen village. The outfit blamed a joint force of NSCN (IM), ZUF-Kamson, and NSCN-K (Niki Sumi) for the attack. NSCN (IM) remained silent. Two others suffered injuries.
The Manipur Naga Youth Organisation has now petitioned the Director General of Police for more protection on National Highway 37 and the Bishnupur-Tupul Road. Citing an October 31 gunfight at Tajeikaiphun village, the group fears ongoing threats from armed elements. The organization stated, “The incident has triggered widespread fear and insecurity among commuters travelling along National Highway No. 37, notwithstanding the existing provision of security escorts.”
MNYO leaders want more outposts and patrols, specifically on Kuki-dominated stretches. They point to social media threats against motorists as a primary danger. Meanwhile, the Chingdai Area Core Committee issued a 24-hour ultimatum to police and paramilitary units. They demand the return of Rs 40,000, livestock, and other goods allegedly stolen during an October 20 search in S. Phailengkot village. Failure to comply by November 4 will result in criminal complaints. DGP Mukesh Singh visited the Manipur Police Training College on November 3 to review operational readiness as regional tensions simmer.
Comments