Northeast Desk, 18th August: In a tragic incident that shattered the relatively peaceful environment in Manipur’s Tangkhul Naga-dominated Ukhrul, three individuals lost their lives in an outbreak of violence on Friday morning. The incident unfolded at around 4:30 am in the Kuki village of Thowai Kuki, which falls under the jurisdiction of Ukhrul police.
The victims, identified as Thangkhokai Haokip, Jamkhogin Haokip, and Hollenson Baite, were village guards responsible for safeguarding the village, according to Ukhrul Superintendent of Police Ningshem Vashum. The violent attack, perpetrated by armed miscreants, is believed to be related to the ongoing ethnic conflict in the state.
Ukhrul has, until now, remained relatively untouched by the clashes between Manipur’s Meitei and Kumi-Zomi communities. However, this incident highlights the fragility of peace in the region. The village’s remote location, nearly three kilometers away from the nearest security post, contributed to the absence of security personnel at the time of the attack.
The security situation has prompted a response from law enforcement and military forces, who are now on the scene. This incident follows a similar episode of violence in another Kuki village in Kamjong, just a month ago.