At least 2 farmer were reported killed on the spot and two others sustained injuries, after armed militants opened fire on farmers working in a paddy field at Langka village in Kangpokpi district under Sapermeina Police Station at around 7.30 am today.
The deceased have been identified as Wiriliangbou Chawang, 34 and Kawidinang Abonmai, 55. Chawang died at the spot following the firing while Abonmai succumbed while on way to hospital.
The injured have been identified as Maliangjinang Abonmai, 52, and Namthiulungbou Prinmai, 50. According to sources, one of the injured is in critical condition.
Sources said the firing was allegedly carried out by cadres of the Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA) and Kuki National Front (KNF), both groups under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) arrangement with the government. The exact circumstances surrounding the attack and the identities of those involved are yet to be officially established.
The incident has raised fresh concern over the safety of civilians, particularly farmers who have to access agricultural fields despite the prevailing security situation in the district.
The attack on farmers engaged in agricultural work has also triggered calls for immediate security measures in Langka and neighbouring villages. Residents have urged the authorities to ensure that civilians are not exposed to armed violence while carrying out their daily livelihood activities.
The killing has left the family and community of Wiriliangbou Chawang in mourning, while the injured victims are undergoing medical treatment.
The government and security agencies have been urged to immediately secure the area, ensure the safety of villagers and conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. Identification of those responsible and action in accordance with law have also been demanded.
The incident comes amid continuing concerns over the security situation in vulnerable areas of Kangpokpi, where civilians remain exposed to armed clashes and attacks despite existing security arrangements and the SoO framework.