Manipur: Two Killed in Ukhrul Highway Ambush

IMPHAL— Two civilians were killed and several others injured in an ambush by unidentified armed assailants in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Saturday, marking a fresh escalation in violence in the region.

HINDI TUTION

The attack occurred around 2:30 PM along National Highway-202 (Imphal–Ukhrul road) near the T.M. Kasom stretch under Litan Police Station. A convoy of at least five private vehicles travelling from Imphal towards Ukhrul and Kamjong districts came under heavy fire.

According to officials, two men belonging to the Tangkhul Naga community lost their lives in the incident. One of the victims, a retired soldier of the Naga Regiment, died on the spot, while another succumbed to injuries at a hospital. At least two women sustained serious injuries and are undergoing treatment at Ukhrul District Hospital.

Also Read- Violence Erupts at Runikata Forest Office in Chirang, Vehicles Torched, Police Fire in Air

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh condemned the attack, describing it as an attempt to disrupt ongoing efforts to restore peace. The incident occurred a day after his visit to Ukhrul district, where he had called for dialogue and reconciliation amid continuing ethnic tensions.

In response to the gravity of the incident, authorities have decided to hand over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The state government has also announced ex-gratia compensation for the families of the deceased.

Also Read- Manipur CM Calls for Dialogue in Ukhrul Visit

Security forces, including the Indian Army and Manipur Police, have launched combing operations in the surrounding areas to trace those responsible. Officials indicated that reinforcements have been deployed to prevent further escalation.

Ukhrul district has witnessed intermittent violence in recent months, reflecting broader tensions between different communities. While some reports have suggested possible involvement of militant groups, no organisation has claimed responsibility for the latest attack. A statement from the Kuki Zo Council denied any role in the incident.

Also Read- Torch Rally, Protest Continue Amid Curfew in Manipur

The ambush follows a series of recent security incidents in the district, including the killing of a Border Security Force personnel earlier this month. Civil society organisations, including the Tangkhul Naga Long, have expressed concern over the targeting of civilians and called for stronger measures to ensure safety.

Authorities said the situation remains tense, with security measures heightened along key routes, including National Highway-202.