Tensions escalate in Manipur as 2 villagers killed, another injured in gun attack

IMPHAL: Two villagers were killed and another injured in a gun attack by suspected militants in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on Monday morning, officials told news agency PTI.According to a district official, armed men opened indiscriminate fire using sophisticated weapons in N Teikhang, a Kuki-inhabited village under T Waichong subdivision, killing two people and setting several houses on fire.The attack took place around 9.30 am, he said.The deceased were identified as Lamtinthang, 35, and Neichin.Another villager, 65-year-old Seilun, sustained bullet injuries in the attack.The firing forced several villagers to flee their homes and take shelter in the nearby forests, officials said.A heavy exchange of fire was underway between armed groups belonging to the two communities in the hill village, they said.Security forces were being rushed to the area to bring the situation under control.The attack came days after suspected militants ambushed a vehicle in the district, killing four Naga civilians and injuring another person.More than 20 people have been killed in separate firing incidents, while several houses have been burnt, since violence broke out between the Naga and Kuki communities in the state in February.(With agency inputs)Stay updated with the latest Imphal news. Download the TOI App.