A woman tragically lost her life, and four others, including a police commando, were injured in a renewed outbreak of violence that shook the ethnic-strife-torn Manipur on Sunday afternoon. Reports indicate that armed militants in Koutruk, located in Manipur's Imphal West district, instigated the fresh violence.
The attack unfolded around 2:00 PM on Sunday in the border region separating the Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi and Meitei-majority Imphal West districts, near a Border Security Force (BSF) station.
Heavily armed militants launched the attack from the hills, opening fire and killing a woman instantly. Media reports suggest she suffered fatal bullet wounds to her head, while her daughter sustained injuries to her hand. Security forces swiftly responded, leading to a fierce gunfight that raged for over four hours until 6:00 PM. During this intense encounter, a police commando also sustained injuries. Village volunteers from Kadangband bravely joined the security units in defending the area.
Reports highlight that the militants were heavily armed and employed drones to drop bombs, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. A Manipur Police personnel was injured by a bomb splinter during one such drone attack, according to the Hindustan Times. A house was also damaged in the bombing.
This incident underscores the escalating tensions and the evolving tactics employed in the ongoing conflict in Manipur, raising concerns about the safety and security of civilians and security personnel alike.
