2 killed, several injured in Ukhrul ambush; NIA to probe

Suspected armed miscreants ambushed civilian vehicles along National Highway-202 in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Saturday, killing two Tangkhul Naga men, including a retired soldier, and injuring several others.
The incident occurred around 2.30 pm near TM Kasom village under Litan police station when armed miscreants launched an unprovoked attack on vehicles travelling towards Ukhrul from Imphal. At least five vehicles were hit by bullets and damaged.
The deceased were identified as Chinaoshang Shokwungnao (45), a retired Naga Regiment personnel from Tashar village, and Yaruingam Vashum (42) from Kharasom village. Chinaoshang was driving a vehicle carrying two women in the back seat, both of whom sustained injuries, with one reported to be in critical condition. The total number of injured could not be immediately confirmed.
The attack reportedly took place after security forces escorting the vehicles withdrew upon crossing a sensitive stretch of the highway in Litan. Vehicles plying along NH-202 had been under escort from Mahadev to Litan following fresh tensions between Tangkhul Naga and Kuki groups since February.
Strongly condemning the incident, the chief minister announced that the state government would hand over the case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for a thorough probe. He said security forces had launched operations to apprehend those responsible and assured ex-gratia compensation to the bereaved families.
United Naga Council (UNC) condemned the killings, alleging involvement of Kuki militants and terming the ambush a “direct challenge to the collective security and dignity of the Nagas.”
It demanded an NIA probe, questioned the “inactivity” of security forces despite the incident occurring near an Army outpost, and sought enhanced security for travellers along NH-202.
However, Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) denied any involvement, stating the incident appeared linked to prevailing factional tensions and cautioned against attributing blame without credible evidence.