Three civilians killed, houses torched in fresh violence in Manipur's Kangpokpi

Manipur, June 5, 2026: Three civilians lost their lives and several houses were damaged in a fresh spell of violence in Manipur's Kangpokpi district in the early hours of Friday, raising fresh concerns about security in the violence-affected state. According to local reports, the incident occurred at approximately 4:10 am. Gunfire was exchanged in the area, although authorities have not yet officially confirmed the circumstances surrounding the clash or identified the groups involved.

The deceased have been identified as Letkhongam Haokip, son of Manglun Haokip; his wife Tinmary Haokip; and Jangminlal Haokip, son of Seikhohao Haokip. Community organisations stated that the victims were residents of the affected village. The incident took place in Loibol Khullen village, located in the New Keithelmanbi area of Kangpokpi district.

Residents reported that several houses belonging to members of the Kuki community were set ablaze during the violence. Early local accounts indicated that at least three houses were burned down. However, Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), a leading Kuki civil society organisation, stated that seven houses were destroyed and that civilian property suffered extensive damage.

According to its statement, KIM alleged that armed cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) and a faction of the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF-K) were behind the attack. The organisation characterised the incident as a targeted assault on civilians and strongly condemned the killings.

These allegations have not been independently verified, and there was no immediate response from either of the groups named by KIM.

KIM EXTENDS CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILIES

Describing the incident as a grave violation of human rights, KIM called for accountability and urged the authorities to take prompt action against those responsible. The organisation also conveyed its condolences to the families of the victims and expressed solidarity with residents whose homes and property were destroyed in the attack.

KIM further appealed to the Government of India and security agencies to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the incident, identify those responsible, and strengthen protection for vulnerable villages in the region.

Security personnel are believed to have intensified monitoring in the area following the violence. Authorities are yet to release a detailed statement regarding the incident, and investigations remain underway. Additional information is expected as officials continue to assess the situation on the ground.

News Credits: India Today