Kuki militants launched coordinated attacks on several valley villages in Manipur on Monday evening, leading to injuries and widespread panic among residents. The violence follows the killing of 11 Kuki militants by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Jiribam district earlier the same day.
The assaults began around 7:15 p.m. in the villages of Koutruk, Kadangband, Kangchup Chingkhong, and Phayeng, all under the jurisdiction of the Lamshang Police Station in Imphal West. Militants deployed rockets, bullets, and bombs, prompting immediate retaliation from Central and State forces stationed at Kangchup Chingkhong.
By 8:20 p.m., militants had set fire to newly constructed houses at Porompat Ching in Phayeng, intended for housing police and security forces.
Rockets were fired from Kharam Vaiphei and Nakhujang at approximately 7:25 p.m., targeting areas in Phumlou and Lairensajik. Although some rockets failed to detonate, the bombardment forced residents to flee.
Two village volunteers, Elangbam Pari (24) and Ph. Devananda (34), were injured in the attack and evacuated to RIMS hospital for treatment.
Earlier in the day, a fierce gunfight broke out at Leitanpokpi and Dampi Hill Range under Phougakchao Ikhai Police Station in Bishnupur District. The clash, which lasted from 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., resulted in injuries to another village volunteer, who was taken to Raj Medicity for treatment. The violence followed the fatal shooting of a young woman, Sapam Sophia, in Bishnupur on Saturday, allegedly by Kuki militants.
Troops from the 16th Battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF) prevented militants from entering Wathalambi, causing them to redirect their assault to the Dampi range. The fresh attacks have left villagers, including children, in fear, prompting further evacuations.
A post-mortem examination of Sapam Sophia’s body was conducted at RIMS mortuary on Monday, where it remains due to ongoing tensions.
The escalation of violence in Manipur underscores the region’s volatile security situation. Authorities continue to monitor and respond to the conflict, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and efforts to restore peace.
