Three killed in gunfight between suspected militant groups in Manipur
The exchange of fire occurred at Taodaijang village in Noney district between suspected cadres of rival Naga outfits.
At least three people were killed during a gunfight between suspected cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isaac Muivah (NSCN-IM) and the Zeliangrong United Front-Jenchui (ZUF-J) at Taodaijang in Manipur’s Noney district on Wednesday, according to the Hindustan Times.
The exchange of fire broke out around 3.30 am or 4 am in the Khoupum area, approximately 19km east of Nungba police station. The deceased were identified as 22-year-old Aihung Khumba from Pungmol, 25-year-old Meijanthui Thaimei from Gangluan Part IV, and 20-year-old Gainingam Kamei from Awangkhul.
Following the incident, the Rongmei Naga Luphuam, a community and women’s organisation, used loudspeakers to appeal to the armed groups to cease hostilities. Local residents, including women, also reached the spot to attempt to prevent further violence.
In a separate incident on Wednesday evening, unknown armed people opened fire towards a passenger vehicle travelling from Imphal to Ukhrul at TM Kasom in Ukhrul district. Officials confirmed that no injuries were reported in that incident.
The ethnic clashes in Manipur, which began between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in May 2023, have resulted in at least 260 deaths and the displacement of 60,000 people.