2 villagers killed, another injured in gun attack in Manipur's Kangpokpi

Two villagers were killed and another injured after suspected militants opened fire in a Kuki-inhabited village in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Monday, August 31 morning, officials said.

The armed men opened indiscriminate fire at N Teikhang village under the T Waichong subdivision around 9.30 am, using sophisticated weapons, a district official said.

Two people were killed in the attack, while another sustained bullet injuries. Several houses were also set on fire, the official said.

The deceased were identified as Lamtinthang, 35, and Neichin.

A 65-year-old villager, Seilun, was also injured in the firing, officials said.

The attack triggered panic in the village, forcing several residents to flee their homes and take shelter in nearby forests, they said.

A heavy exchange of fire was underway between armed groups belonging to the two communities in the hill village, according to officials.

Security forces were being rushed to the area to bring the situation under control.

The attack came days after suspected militants ambushed a vehicle in the district, killing four Naga civilians and injuring another.

More than 20 people have been killed in separate firing incidents and several houses burnt since violence broke out between the Naga and Kuki communities in the state in February.