Gunfight intensified in fringe areas of Churachandpur: Three died among Meiteis, two from Kukis, several injuries

Atleast two from Kuki volunteers were killed and around 12 individuals sustained injuries in a fresh violence in Churachandpur district on Saturday.

A heavy exchange of fire occurred between the Meitei armed militants and Village volunteers of Kuki from early this morning at the frontline area of Pholjang village, adjoining the Meitei area on around Kwakta, Bishnupur district.

The intensified gunfight at the frontline claimed the lives of two Kuki volunteers, identified as- Jangkhomang Haokip (38) S/o Mangjalet of G. Mongjang, and Lalkholen Guite (34) S/o Khupthang of Khamenlok. While Haokip succumbed to mortar injuries, Guite was shot dead by a sniper.

As per reports, atleast three from Meitei armed groups were reportedly shot dead and more than seven got injuries, including police commandos.

As many as 12 individuals from Kuki volunteers sustained injuries in the firing. The injured persons were identified as Kamneilun (23) of Kangvai, Tongminthang (33) of Gothol, Janggoulun (25), Tuibong, Gibeon of Tuibong, Thanglet (47) of Bijang, Jamkhongam (49 of S. Phaipijang, Haolenmang (27) of B. Aijalon, Momon (38) of T. Champhai, Lunminthang (35) of S. Cananveng, Jangminthang (37) of K. Salbung,Thangjalun (38) of Zomi colony and Thangkam (52) of Gamphajang.

All the injured persons are now under-going treatment at District Hospital, Churachandpur.

The Meitei armed groups also destroyed and burnt down abandoned houses of Kukis in Ukhatampak village, near Kwakta area.

Owing to the intermittent attacks at Pholjang area, tension erupted in S. Boljang area, near Haolai Khopi village. A large number of womenfolks gathered at Haolai Khopi village attempted to destroy the deserted Meitei houses in Bangla area in the afternoon. However, security personnel posted at Torbung Bangla opened blank fire to disperse the mob. A heated melee ensued between the womenfolks and the security personnel at Haolai Khopi village. However, no injuries was reported in the said incident.

The gunfight continues till the filing of this report.