In another factional clash between the rival NSCN factions at Lotovi village under Kuhuboto sub-division, Dimapur, one civilian who was shot in the crossfire later succumbed to injuries at Zion Hospital.
The deceased was later identified as Hussain Ali, son of Musubir Ali. The clash took place Friday around 8:30 a.m and lasted for half an hour.
Chairman of Lotovi village, T Honito, said a dozen ‘GPRN/NSCN’ activists had camped in the village on Thursday night and were about to depart Friday morning, when around one hundred NSCN (I-M) activists also entered the village unaware of the presence of the rival cadres lying in wait for them.
However, the NSCN (I-M) reportedly spotted the rival members before the ambush could take place and in the ensuing exchange of fire, the ‘GPRN/NSCN’ activists were forced to retreat into the jungles.
One Home Guard personnel identified as Hotoshe had also a providential escape when a shot directed at him by an NSCN (I-M) cadre misfired.
By the time police and army personnel reached Lotovi village, the NSCN (IM) cadres had already reached Kuhuboto, where they resorted to some blank firing and some panicked villagers gathered in the Church for shelter.
Kuhuboto Ghakhu Public Organization president Kiyeka K. Zhimomi, told mediapersons that the NSCN (IM) activists had said they would leave the village after having their meal.
Kiyekha also appealed to both the NSCN factions not to resort to clashes in civilian populated areas.
Monday, February 16, 2026