Manipur: At least 15 houses torched in Kamjong village

Suspected militants set fire to at least 15 houses belonging to Kuki residents in Chassad village in Manipur’s Kamjong district late on Saturday, October 17, forcing civilians to flee to nearby forests and an Army camp, The Economic Times reported, citing officials on Sunday.

Earlier on Saturday, an attack by suspected militants in the same village killed one Kuki civilian and left four others with bullet injuries, officials said. The report did not identify the armed group responsible for either attack.

Police said in a statement that a joint contingent of the Assam Rifles, Border Security Force and Kamjong Police had been deployed to restore control in the affected area.

Protection ordered for residents and property

Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen condemned the violence, mourned the civilian’s death and expressed concern for injured village leaders and families driven from their homes. She also condemned the burning of houses.

Kipgen said she had directed the district administration, police and security forces to keep continuous watch, safeguard civilian lives and property, and bring those responsible to justice.

Three injured in separate shooting

In a separate incident at Kamjong district headquarters on Saturday night, three Tangkhul Naga civilians suffered bullet injuries. The report attributed that attack to rival armed groups from another community but did not name the groups.