manipur-3-killed-houses-torched-by-armed-assailants

Three people, including a woman, were killed and at least seven houses set ablaze after armed assailants attacked a village in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district early on Friday, prompting residents to flee into nearby forests, officials said.

 

The attack took place around 4 am at Loibol Khullen village in the Saitu-Gamphazol subdivision. According to officials, the violence triggered an exchange of fire between rival groups that lasted several minutes.

 

The deceased were identified as Letkhongam Haokip, Tinmary Haokip and Jangminlal Haokip.

 

Authorities said at least seven houses were gutted in the fire during the assault. Villagers reportedly ran to nearby forested areas to seek safety as the firing continued.

 

Manipur Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen condemned the attack, describing the killings and destruction of property as a “tragic and unacceptable act”.

 

“The killing of three innocent persons and the burning of homes by unknown armed miscreants is a tragic and unacceptable act. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those who have been affected,” Kipgen said in a statement.

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She said the government was treating the incident with utmost seriousness and assured that those responsible would face legal action.

 

“The government is taking this incident very seriously. Necessary steps are being taken, and those responsible will be dealt with as per law. The safety and security of our people remain our priority,” she added.

 

Kipgen also appealed for calm, urging people not to be provoked by attempts to create fear and division.

 

Meanwhile, the apex Kuki tribal body, Kuki Inpi Manipur, strongly condemned the attack and called for a thorough investigation to identify and arrest those behind the violence.

 

“KIM unequivocally denounces this barbaric act of violence against unarmed civilians. The deliberate killing of innocent persons, and the destruction of homes and livelihoods constitute a serious violation of human dignity and fundamental human rights,” the organisation said in a statement.

 

The latest incident underscores continuing security concerns in parts of Manipur, where sporadic violence has persisted despite efforts by authorities to restore normalcy.