On Thursday, the postmortem examination of Ngangom Surbala, who was killed during recent drone bombings by Kuki militants, was conducted at RIMS Mortuary. An executive magistrate oversaw the procedure and recorded a video. A projectile, believed to be from a sniper rifle, was identified as the cause of death. The body has not yet been claimed by the family.
The incident occurred following a significant escalation of violence on Sunday, when Kuki militants attacked Koutruk Ching Leikai and Kadangband Part-1 using drones, rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), and small arms fire. The attacks resulted in Surbala’s death and injuries to 16 others, including a child and a journalist.
During the assault on Koutruk Ching Leikai, drones dropped bombs, one of which exploded at a CRPF post. Subsequently, militants advanced on the village, causing further casualties. Surbala, who was visiting her family, was struck by bullets and died at the scene, while her daughter sustained a shoulder injury.
Additional damage was reported as one bomb exploded in the kitchen of an IRB bunker, leading to substantial property damage. The militants then moved to Kadangband Part-1, where several more individuals were injured and multiple houses caught fire.
The following day, Kuki militants continued their assault with drone strikes at Senjam Chirang in Imphal West. Three bombs were dropped, injuring Watham Gambhir, 65, and his family members. Gambhir’s daughter, Sanatombi, 23, suffered a splinter wound and is receiving treatment at Shija Hospital. Gambhir’s younger brother, Jotin, 56, sustained a minor shoulder injury.
Since the onset of the crisis on May 3, 2023, Koutruk village in Imphal West has faced continuous attacks from Kuki militants. The use of drone warfare, similar to tactics used in the Myanmar conflict, suggests possible support or training from Myanmar militants.
In response, Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the attacks as acts of terrorism against indigenous people and announced that the government will enhance measures to counter the drone strikes.
Additionally, on Monday, Kuki militants attacked an Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) post near Meikan, Imphal East district, using drones and mortar fire. The militants stole three assault rifles, including one AK-47, one INSAS rifle, and one INSAS light machine gun. Manipur Police, alongside central security forces, have also seized a drone and other weapons in Kharam Vaiphei, Kangpokpi district.
