Hongbei killing shocks Naga movement: Four Naga army cadres allegedly shot dead in one-sided “shoot-to-kill” attack, GHQ orders probe

Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, March 30:
A tragic and deeply disturbing shootout at Hongbei Village has sent shockwaves across the Naga political and military establishment, after four Naga Army cadres were killed in what appears to be a fatal case of internal firing, triggering grief, confusion, and serious questions regarding command responsibility within the ranks.
In a press statement issued by the Publicity and Information Bureau (PIB), General Headquarters (GHQ), Naga Army, Brigadier Hetoshe Achumi, MSM, expressed shock and profound sorrow over the incident that claimed the lives of four soldiers. The GHQ clarified that no directive had been issued to launch any offensive operation against any group or faction at this critical juncture.
The statement emphasized that a full-scale investigation has been initiated to determine the circumstances leading to what was described as a “horrific and botched operation.” The GHQ assured that individuals responsible for the incident would face strict punishment under the NARR (Naga Army Rules and Regulations). The public was also urged to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information circulating on social media platforms.
Ambush at Hongbei Village
According to a separate condolence message issued by the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN), Eastern Flank, Naga Army, the incident occurred on the night of March 28, 2026, between 8:30 pm and 9:00 pm at Hongbei Village Junction.
The four cadres killed in the shooting have been identified as:
Major (Posthumous) Sochipem Phungshok – Army No. AX40200
Sergeant Major (Posthumous) Zairay Vasah – Army No. 45655/22
Sergeant (Posthumous) Bahnle Ahlahpya – Army No. 45592/21
Sergeant (Posthumous) Thansomi Washi – Army No. 44982/19
The Eastern Flank Command stated that the slain cadres were on official duty, reportedly assigned to monitor timber movement and business activities along the sensitive Indo-Myanmar border areas near Kasom Khullen.
Earlier in the day, the cadres had reportedly met personnel led by 2nd Lieutenant Starling of Lairam Village at Hongbei junction, where discussions were held regarding unity among Naga forces and cooperation against perceived adversaries. The interaction was described as cordial, with exchanges of pleasantries before the cadres proceeded toward Kasom Khullen.
However, upon their return later in the evening, events took a deadly turn.
Alleged Order to Open Fire
The condolence message alleges that the returning cadres were stopped again at Hongbei junction by a group led by 2nd Lieutenant Mathotmi of Shihai Khunou Village along with other armed personnel.
During the interaction, some members reportedly recognized the approaching cadres and suggested allowing them to pass. However, it was alleged that an order was suddenly issued to fire, reportedly stating, “It’s them we are ordered to shoot.”
Gunfire was opened immediately, killing four cadres on the spot, while two others managed to escape the ambush.
The Eastern Flank Command questioned how such a lethal order could have originated from a junior-ranking officer, suggesting that directives of this nature could only come from the highest levels of leadership, including the Collective Leadership or the Longvibu.
Grief, Shock and Calls for Accountability
Lieutenant General A. Raman, MM, MC, in the condolence message, described the fallen cadres as brave patriots who laid down their lives in service of the Naga nation. He stated that their sacrifice would not be forgotten and would continue to inspire future generations committed to the Naga cause.
The leadership expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for eternal peace for the departed souls.
The incident has raised serious concerns within Naga circles, particularly at a time when several Naga civil bodies and political organizations have been advocating unity among different factions amid growing regional instability and security threats along border areas.
Observers note that the Hongbei tragedy risks widening mistrust within armed structures unless a transparent investigation establishes accountability and clarifies the chain of command involved in the deadly confrontation.
Appeal for Calm
Both GHQ and Eastern Flank authorities have appealed to the public and Naga communities to exercise restraint and avoid speculation until official findings emerge.
As investigations continue, the Hongbei incident stands as one of the most painful internal tragedies in recent times — a stark reminder of the fragile situation confronting Naga armed groups and the urgent necessity for coordination, discipline, and unity to prevent further loss of life.
The outcome of the ongoing probe is now being closely watched, as the Naga public awaits answers to how four comrades on duty came to fall not to external adversaries, but allegedly to bullets fired from within their own ranks.