Kuki woman killed in Manipur gunfight between suspected militants
A Kuki organisation has called a 48-hour total shutdown in Kangpokpi district following the death of a woman.
A Kuki woman was shot dead and two men were injured during a gunfight between suspected rival militant groups in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Thursday, according to The Pioneer and Daily Excelsior.
The exchange of fire occurred around 11 am near Taphou Kuki village in Kangpokpi and Kailengjang in Senapati district.
The deceased, identified as 42-year-old K Chongloi, was found dead in a nearby field while working with a sickle.
Two men, S David Chongloi, 34, and Lamkhochon Chongloi, 46, sustained injuries and were taken to hospitals in Kangpokpi district.
A Kuki organisation has called for a 48-hour total shutdown in Kangpokpi district and demanded the government withdraw all security forces, alleging they failed to ensure civilian safety.
Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen condemned the killing as a "heinous act of violence" and called for a prompt, thorough and impartial investigation.
Police stated that additional personnel from the CRPF, BSF and Assam Rifles have been deployed to the area.
Security forces have cordoned off nearby villages and are conducting search operations, including in Oname Taphou village in Senapati district, where locals attempted to prevent security forces from approaching.