Two people, including a former Indian Army serviceman, were killed and at least two others critically injured in a suspected militant ambush in Manipur's Ukhrul district on Saturday.
The attack took place around 2:30 pm along the Imphal-Ukhrul road, between Litan and TM Kasom areas. According to police sources, a convoy of four civilian vehicles was travelling from Imphal towards Ukhrul and Kamjong when unidentified armed militants suddenly opened fire.
Among those killed was former Army personnel SW Chinaoshang, a resident of Tashar village in Ukhrul district who had earlier served in the Naga Regiment. Another victim, identified as 42-year-old Yaruingam Vashum from Kharasom CV village, succumbed to his injuries at Ukhrul District Hospital after being hit by bullets during the attack.
Two other people sustained serious injuries and are currently undergoing treatment, officials said.
Preliminary information suggests that the convoy was under security escort up to Litan but continued its journey without protection beyond that point, where the ambush occurred. The attackers reportedly fled the scene immediately after targeting the vehicles.
Following the incident, security forces rushed to the area and launched search operations to track down those responsible.
The ambush comes amid a series of violent incidents reported from the same district. A day earlier, clashes involving gunfire were reported in Sinakeithei village between suspected armed groups belonging to different communities. The exchange of fire reportedly continued for hours, with security forces later intervening to bring the situation under control.
Meanwhile, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC), a civil society organisation representing the Kuki-Zo community, has denied any involvement in the ambush. In a statement, the group said it had no role in the attack and condemned the incident.
The attack also comes shortly after Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand's visit to Ukhrul district under his "Journey for Peace" initiative, aimed at easing tensions among communities.
Manipur has been witnessing prolonged ethnic unrest since May 2023, mainly between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups. The violence has claimed hundreds of lives and forced thousands to flee their homes, leaving the situation tense and unpredictable.
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