3 dead as violence breaks out in Manipur’s Kangpokpi, villagers escape to forests

IMPHAL: Three people, including a woman, were killed after armed assailants launched an attack at residents of a remote village in Manipur's Kangpokpi district early on Friday.The attack took place around 4 am at Loibol Khullen village in the Saitu-Gamphazol subdivision. According to the officials, the deceased were identified as Letkhongam Haokip, Tinmary Haokip and Jangminlal Haokip.The three died amid exchange of fire between rival groups for several minutes. As gunshots rang out, terrified residents rushed out of their homes and fled towards nearby forest areas in search of safety, an official said.Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen condemned the attack describing it as a tragic and unacceptable act. She said those responsible will be dealt with as per law."The killing of three innocent persons and the burning of homes by unknown armed miscreants is a tragic and unacceptable act. My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those who have been affected.""The government is taking this incident very seriously. Necessary steps are being taken, and those responsible will be dealt with as per law.

The safety and security of our people remain our priority," she said in a statement.Kipgen also appealed to people to remain calm and "not be provoked by those who seek to create fear and division".Meanwhile, the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of Kuki tribes in the state, also condemned the attack and demanded a thorough investigation."KIM unequivocally denounces this barbaric act of violence against unarmed civilians. The deliberate killing of innocent persons, and the destruction of homes and livelihoods constitute a serious violation of human dignity and fundamental human rights," it said in a statement.More details are expected as authorities assess the situation on the ground.( With PTI inputs)