Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal

Imphal, Apr 18: Two individuals from the Naga community were killed after unidentified armed attackers opened fire on vehicles travelling along the Imphal–Dimapur National Highway near Ukhrul district in Manipur on Saturday, police said.

The victims were identified as Chinaoshang Shokwungnao (45) and Yaruingam Vashum (42). According to a senior police official, both men were travelling in a convoy when the attack took place. They reportedly died on the spot.

Security forces have launched a combing operation in the area to trace those responsible, with senior officers leading the search effort following the incident.

The attack occurred near Yaolen Kuki village, prompting strong reactions from the Tangkhul Naga Long, which condemned the killings and alleged involvement of armed Kuki cadres operating under a Suspension of Operation agreement with the government. The group claimed that civilians, including women and children, were part of the convoy and that the attack targeted multiple vehicles using long-range weapons.

The organisation also criticised the security response, alleging lapses in area domination and questioning the effectiveness of escort arrangements on the highway. It demanded intensified combing operations in nearby villages.

However, the Kuki-Zo Council rejected the allegations, denying any involvement of Kuki-Zo groups in the incident. The council suggested the attack may be linked to internal factional rivalries and cautioned against attributing blame without verification, warning that such claims could deepen communal tensions.

The incident comes amid ongoing ethnic sensitivities in Manipur, where security forces have been maintaining escorts and patrols along key routes following repeated episodes of violence. Authorities have stepped up operations in the region as investigations continue.