Ukhrul tense as fresh gunfights reported at multiple locations

Fresh gunfights were reported at multiple locations in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Thursday between suspected Kuki armed groups and Tangkhul Naga village volunteers, police said, adding that the clashes were reported at three locations, including Mongket Chepu village.
A fresh exchange of fire was also reported at Sanakeithel (Sinakeithei), a Tangkhul Naga village in Ukhrul district, though no casualties were reported.
“It could be a coordinated attack, we heard sounds of automatic assault rifles and Kartoos (single-barrel gun) but cannot confirm who are involved. No casualties have been officially reported during the gunfight; however, security has been alerted in the area,” a police officials, requesting anonymity, told the Hindustan Times.
According to sources quoting the Sinakeithei village authority, the incident occurred around 3.20 pm when suspected Kuki armed men allegedly opened fire towards the village.
The crossfire reportedly continued till around 5.10 p.m. Sources alleged that the firing originated from bunkers located at the Lungter hill range near the village.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions between Naga and Kuki groups in Ukhrul district following recent developments, including the abduction of 21 passengers by Kuki groups on March 11 and the recovery of two Kuki bodies after the passengers were released the following day.
Meanwhile, the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) expressed concern over reported firing incidents in Sinakeithei, Thawai and Litan areas on March 19.
In a statement, Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) said the incidents created panic among residents and disrupted normal life in the affected villages.
It stated that firing was reported from multiple locations during the day and evening.
TNL urged authorities to take immediate steps to restore normalcy and ensure the safety of civilians. It also called for deployment of adequate security forces, maintenance of peace, and a thorough investigation into the incidents.