Security forces in Manipur have initiated a large-scale manhunt following a daylight ambush in Churachandpur district that left four people dead on Sunday, June 30. The victims were traveling in a vehicle when they were attacked by unidentified gunmen near Mongjang village, triggering heightened security measures and an ongoing investigation.
The ambush took place between 1:00 and 2:00 p.m. near Mongjang (also known as K. Mongjang), approximately seven kilometers from Churachandpur town. A Hyundai Creta vehicle was fired upon at close range, resulting in the immediate deaths of three male occupants. A fourth victim, a 72-year-old woman, was later found dead by the roadside. Police recovered over a dozen empty cartridges from the scene, indicating sustained gunfire.
Authorities identified the deceased as Phalhing (72) of Koite village, Thenkhothang Haokip alias Thahpi (48) from Matejang, Seikhogin (35) from Teiseng, and Lengouhao (35) of Chengkon village. Among them, Thahpi was reportedly a senior figure in the Kuki National Army (KNA), serving as its deputy commander-in-chief.
Following the attack, police and paramilitary forces cordoned off the area and launched a combing operation. Security checkpoints were established across key transit points in Churachandpur to prevent further violence. A First Information Report has been registered at the local police station, and forensic teams are examining ballistic evidence from the site.
All four victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Their bodies were transported to the Churachandpur District Hospital for post-mortem examinations. No injuries or survivors have been reported.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the ambush was highly coordinated, suggesting targeted killings. They have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Preliminary investigations point to factional tensions among armed groups in the region.
The United Kuki National Army (UKNA), a breakaway faction, has claimed responsibility for the attack. In a statement, the group characterized the killings as a retaliatory act tied to inter-group conflicts. The police are working to verify this claim as part of a broader inquiry into the motives and affiliations of the assailants.
The incident underscores the fragile security situation in Manipur, particularly in hill districts where ethnic and insurgent tensions have remained high since 2023. Although the central government imposed President’s Rule in early 2025, violent clashes between rival factions continue to challenge peace efforts in the region.
Authorities have prioritized the apprehension of those involved in the Churachandpur ambush and are intensifying security operations to prevent retaliatory violence. The investigation remains ongoing.
