Imphal, June 15: On Monday, unknown armed militants attacked the Kuki community in Leilong Waifei village, located in the Kangpokpi district of Manipur, injuring at least three individuals.
The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), one of the main organizations representing the Kuki tribal community, condemned the attack and urgently called for action from security forces, particularly central forces.
Janghaolon Haokip, KIM’s Information and Publicity Secretary, alleged that militants associated with the NSCN-IM and its proxy group, the Jeliangrong United Front (Kamsan) (JUF-K), carried out a bomb attack on Leilong Waifei.
In a statement, Haokip said, “This violent incident has once again endangered innocent lives, caused property damage, and disrupted the peace and security of the people. Attacks in civilian areas are unacceptable and inhumane, posing a direct threat to the rule of law.”
He expressed concern that residents of Leilong Waifei and surrounding areas should not be expected to live in constant fear while armed groups operate freely and without fear.
Haokip questioned, “How long will the government and security forces allow those responsible for spreading terror, insecurity, and devastation to go unpunished? The silence, delay, or inaction of security forces and the government will only embolden criminals and increase public anger and distrust.”
The tribal organization urged the government and security agencies to identify, arrest, and prosecute all individuals involved in this unprovoked attack. Haokip emphasized, “The safety of ordinary citizens must be prioritized, and adequate security measures should be implemented to prevent further violence.”
Kangpokpi has been one of the most troubled areas in Manipur, experiencing several violent incidents over the past year that have resulted in numerous fatalities.
Following violence on May 13, which claimed the lives of three church leaders in Kangpokpi and injured four others, various armed groups took at least 50 individuals from the Kuki and Naga communities hostage in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts.
After continuous efforts from officials, community leaders, and several civil society organizations, a total of 30 individuals from both communities were released on May 14 and 15. The remaining 14 hostages from the Kuki community were freed on June 9 after being held for nearly four weeks.
However, the mutilated bodies of six abducted Naga individuals were discovered on June 10 near a forested area in Kharam Waifei village, sparking significant outrage within the community.
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