Violence persists unabated in Manipur, with a recent outbreak claiming the lives of at least 13 individuals in the Tengnoupal district on Monday afternoon. According to a source with security forces, the incident unfolded around noon, with information indicating a gunfight between two militant groups broke out near Letithu village, close to Saibol in Tengnoupal district.
Imphal Times has learned that the nearest security forces were about 10km away from the incident location. “Once our forces moved in and reached the place, they found 13 bodies in the Leithu village. The forces did not find any weapons next to the bodies,” the source said.
The source further indicated that the deceased individuals in the Leithu area did not seem to be local residents, suggesting that they may have come from elsewhere and engaged in a firefight with another group. As of now, the authorities have not officially confirmed the identities of the deceased. Though, in response to the incident, the state police have arrived at the scene and are initiating an investigation into the matter.
Since May 3, the region has been marred by clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities, resulting in a grim toll of at least 182 lives lost and around 50,000 people displaced. Only recently, on Sunday, did authorities decide to lift the seven-month-long ban on mobile internet services in the violence-affected state, with the exception of certain border areas in some districts. The situation remains volatile, demanding a comprehensive and urgent response from the authorities to address the root causes of the conflicts and ensure the safety and stability of the affected communities.
Over the past seven months, regions predominantly inhabited by the Meitei and Kuki communities have borne the brunt of escalating violence, marked by a distressing surge in incidents such as gunfights, arson, and abductions. These areas, once vibrant communities, now find themselves grappling with the profound consequences of prolonged unrest. The ongoing conflict has not only claimed lives but has also left a trail of destruction, displacing numerous families and eroding the fabric of social harmony.
Gunfight in Tengnoupal claims 13 lives, signaling unabated violence
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