Manipur violence: 4 killed after suspected militants open fire on two cars in Ukhrul

New Delhi: A fresh incident of violence was reported in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Thursday after suspected militants opened fire on two cars along the Imphal-Ukhrul road, killing four people including two women, police said. The attack took place in the New Heaven area, adding to tensions in the state.

A senior police officer said the victims were travelling in the two vehicles when the firing took place. “Two men and two women, who were travelling in the two cars, died on the spot. Bullet marks were seen on the windshields of the two vehicles,” the officer said.

The attack has added to the tension in Manipur where violence between different ethnic groups has continued despite security measures and efforts to restore normalcy.

Four killed in Ukhrul firing

Police said all four victims died at the scene. Security personnel have been deployed in the area and further details about the attackers and the circumstances behind the shooting are awaited.

The killings came a day after a 42-year-old Kuki woman was shot dead in another incident. Two men were also injured during a gunfight between rival groups near Taphou Kuki village in Kangpokpi district and Kailengjang in neighbouring Senapati district.

The latest incidents come against the backdrop of prolonged ethnic violence that has affected several parts of Manipur.

Manipur violence continues

The state has witnessed clashes between the valley-based Meitei and hill-based Kuki communities since May 2023. The conflict has claimed at least 306 lives while 49 people remain missing and thousands have been displaced.

Violence has also spread to clashes involving other groups. At least 50 people have been killed in clashes between Kuki and Naga groups in the hill districts since February this year.

The latest firing in Ukhrul is likely to add to concerns over continuing violence in the state’s hill districts. Authorities are yet to establish the identity of those responsible for Friday’s attack.