In a significant development in Manipur’s ongoing security situation, four militants belonging to the banned United Kuki National Army (UKNA) were killed and one was apprehended during an operation in the Churachandpur district. The gun battle took place between the militant group and security personnel, including the elite 21 Para Special Forces and 36 Assam Rifles.
The encounter reportedly began early Tuesday morning around 6 am in Khanpi village, Henglep sub-division, approximately 80 kilometers west of Churachandpur town. According to an Assam Rifles spokesperson, the operation was launched based on intelligence inputs, but the militant group allegedly initiated unprovoked firing on the security forces. This led to a fierce exchange of fire, resulting in the neutralization of four UKNA cadres.
Officials confirmed that the operation was still ongoing, with searches continuing in the surrounding areas. The operation was a direct response to recent acts of violence carried out by UKNA cadres, which included the killing of a village chief, intimidation of local residents, and efforts to destabilize peace in the region. The Assam Rifles statement emphasized that this successful operation underscores the commitment of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles to protecting civilians and maintaining peace and security in Manipur.
While unofficial reports suggest that at least three Assam Rifles personnel sustained injuries during the firefight, there has been no official confirmation. The bodies of the deceased militants were later moved to the Churachandpur district hospital.
This encounter comes just days after the alleged assault and subsequent death of the village chief of T Khonomphai in Henglep sub-division on October 27, an act attributed to UKNA cadres. The victim had succumbed to his injuries while en route to the hospital.
The UKNA’s Suspension of Operation agreement was revoked by the Manipur government in 2023 due to its alleged involvement in the ongoing ethnic crisis. The group had previously claimed responsibility for an ambush on June 30 that resulted in the deaths of three members from another Kuki outfit.
The broader ethnic violence that erupted in Manipur in May 2023 has led to a significant loss of life, with around 260 people reportedly killed and over 60,000 displaced. The state remains under President’s Rule, with plans in place to complete the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons by December.