At least 11 people have been killed, and 23 others injured in an attack by suspected militants on Khamelock village in Manipur, according to police sources, reprts said. The attack occurred late on Tuesday night when heavily armed militants opened fire on the villagers using automatic weapons. The initial assault resulted in the deaths of nine people, with 23 others, including women, sustaining injuries. Two individuals later succumbed to their injuries during treatment.
Authorities fear that the death toll may rise further as several of the injured victims are reported to be in critical condition. The bodies of the deceased have been transferred to the mortuary of Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences in Porompat, Imphal.
Khamelock village is located on the border of Imphal East district, predominantly inhabited by the Meitei community, and Kangpokpi district, which is primarily inhabited by tribal communities. This region has witnessed previous clashes resulting in casualties. In response to the recent incident, additional paramilitary forces have been deployed in Khamelock.
As a precautionary measure, the District Magistrates of Imphal East and Imphal West districts have canceled the relaxation of the curfew, which is typically eased from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Manipur has experienced a series of devastating ethnic violence since May 3, resulting in the deaths of over 120 people and injuring more than 350 individuals. These incidents have also caused extensive damage to thousands of houses, as well as numerous private and government properties and vehicles. Authorities are working diligently to address the ongoing security challenges in the region and restore peace and stability.
In the meantime in a new incident of violence, unidentified assailants set fire to the official residence of Manipur’s Industry Minister, Nemcha Kipgen, located in the Lamphel area of Imphal West district on Wednesday evening, according to officials. The attack occurred while the minister was away from home.
Security forces, led by senior officers, have been deployed to the scene, initiating a search operation to apprehend the attackers responsible for the arson.
Nemcha Kipgen, the lone woman minister in the state, represents the tribal-dominated Kangpokpi constituency and is a member of the 12-member council of ministers led by Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
This incident follows a series of attacks in which the houses of several ministers and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), including PWD Minister Konthoujam Govindas, were targeted and set ablaze in various parts of the state.
Authorities are actively investigating these acts of violence and working to ensure the safety and security of all individuals affected by these incidents.
