Two cadres of the banned United Kuki National Army (UKNA) were killed and two others injured during a joint operation by the Assam Rifles and Indian Army in Manipur’s Churachandpur district, officials said.
The operation was launched after security forces received specific intelligence about the presence of a UKNA camp in Phaibong village under Henglep sub-division. According to officials, surveillance was established over the camp on August 29, followed by tactical operations from around 5 am on September 2.
At around 5.30 am, UKNA cadres allegedly opened fire on the security forces, leading to a heavy exchange of gunfire. Two cadres were subsequently killed and two others sustained injuries.
A search of the camp led to the recovery of a significant quantity of arms, ammunition and other equipment. The recovered items included two MA rifles, an AK-56 rifle, a 40 mm launcher, grenades, magazines and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. Combat uniforms, ammunition pouches, backpacks and jungle shoes were also recovered.
The Assam Rifles said operations were continuing in the surrounding jungle areas as security forces searched for other possible members of the outfit.
The UKNA is a banned armed group operating in the region. Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam Singh had earlier informed the state Assembly that the outfit was allegedly involved in the Tronglaobi improvised explosive device (IED) attack, in which two minors were killed while they were sleeping.
According to statements from Manipur Police and security agencies, an arrested UKNA cadre identified as S Palal Kuki had allegedly admitted to serving as the self-styled finance head or finance secretary of the banned organisation.
The latest operation comes amid the continuing security challenges in Manipur, where ethnic violence erupted on May 3, 2023. According to the figures cited by officials, the violence has so far claimed 306 lives, while 49 people remain missing.
Security forces have continued operations against armed groups in different parts of the state, with intelligence-based searches and joint operations forming a key part of efforts to prevent further violence.
Authorities are now examining the recovered weapons and other material as part of the investigation. Further details about the identities of those killed and injured and the outcome of the ongoing search operation are awaited.
Reader Comments 0