Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, June 11:
A deadly armed attack allegedly carried out by the Kuki National Army-Burma (KNA-B) claimed the lives of four villagers, injured two others, and reduced more than 15 houses to ashes at Kultuh village along the Indo-Myanmar border in Kamjong district on Thursday, according to the Eastern Command of the Naga Village Guard (NVG).
In a statement issued by its Media Cell, the Eastern Command of NVG said the attack took place in the early hours of June 11 at Kultuh, a settlement located within what it described as the ancestral land of the Tangkhul Nagas. The assault reportedly triggered panic among residents and caused extensive destruction to homes and property.
According to the statement, the violence was allegedly linked to a dispute between the Kuki National Front-President (KNF-P) and the KNA-B over territorial control along the international border. The attack was also reportedly connected to allegations of non-payment of “narco trade tax” to the KNA-B over an extended period.
The NVG stated that upon receiving information about the armed intrusion, its personnel, who were already conducting patrol and surveillance operations along the border, rushed to the village at around 3:30 a.m. to defend the residents. A fierce gun battle reportedly ensued and lasted for nearly 20 minutes. During the exchange of fire, one member of the Naga Village Guard sustained injuries.
Strongly condemning the incident, the Eastern Command described the attack as an act of external aggression that resulted in loss of innocent lives, destruction of homes, and widespread fear among villagers. It further claimed that Thursday’s assault was the second such incident following the alleged coordinated attacks on Choro, Wanglee and Namlee villages on May 7, which it attributed to the KNA-B and its alleged allies from across the border.
Expressing deep condolences to the families of the four deceased villagers, the NVG reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the land, identity, and security of the people living along the border areas.
“The Naga Village Guard stands committed to defend our land, identity and people against any external threats,” the statement said, while warning that any future attempts to disrupt peace and security in the region would be met with a firm response.