Manipur: Two banned UKNA cadres killed and two injured in Churachandpur

Two cadres of the banned United Kuki National Army were killed and two others injured during a security operation at the group’s camp in Manipur’s Churachandpur district, officials said. Arms and ammunition were recovered from the site.

The Assam Rifles and the Indian Army launched the joint operation after receiving specific intelligence on August 29 about a camp in Phaibong village, in the Henglep subdivision. Security forces kept the site under surveillance before beginning tactical operations at 5 a.m. on September 2.

The cadres opened fire at about 5:30 a.m., triggering a heavy exchange of gunfire. The Assam Rifles later said on X: “Intel confirms 2 UKNA cadres neutralised and 2 injured.” Its account listed two 5.56 mm MA rifles, an AK-56 rifle, a 40 mm Lathode gun, seven Lathod grenades, magazines, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, combat uniforms, ammunition pouches, backpacks, combat bags and jungle shoes among the recovered items. The forces continued operations in the surrounding jungles.

Manipur Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam Singh previously told the state legislative assembly that the banned UKNA had been involved in the Tronglaobi improvised explosive device attack, which killed two minors as they slept. Statements from Manipur Police and security agencies said an arrested UKNA cadre, identified as S Palal Kuki, admitted serving as the group’s self-styled finance head or finance secretary.

The operation comes amid violence in Manipur that began on May 3, 2023. Officials said the unrest has claimed 306 lives, while 49 people remain missing.

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Intel confirms 2 UKNA cadres neutralised and 2 injured.