Three villagers killed, houses torched in Manipur; The CM condemns the attack

Security personnel stand guard in Imphal. Image is for representational purposes only. | Photo credit: ANI

GUWAHATI

Unidentified gunmen killed three Kuki villagers, including a woman, and set fire to seven houses in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district around 4 am on Friday (June 5, 2026).

The incident occurred in Loibol Khullen, a small village in the Kuki-dominated Saitu-Gamphazol district.

Kukis hold ‘coffin rally’ in Manipur, CRPF chief inspects security

Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body of the Kuki community in Manipur, has accused members of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) and its “proxy”, Kamson’s Zeliangrong United Front faction. The NSCN is also referred to as the Isak-Muivah faction of the Nagaland National Socialist Council. The Naga groups are yet to respond to the allegations.

“This reprehensible act of violence resulted in the tragic killing of three innocent civilians – Letkhongam Haokip, his wife Tinmara Haokip and Jangminlal Haokip – while seven houses were reduced to ashes and extensive damage was caused to civilian property,” KIM said in a statement condemning the attack.

“…The deliberate killing of innocent people and the destruction of homes and livelihoods is a serious violation of human dignity and basic human rights. The deliberate targeting of civilians and the destruction of homes can never be justified under any circumstances,” the organization said.

KIM urged the Center and security agencies to investigate the incident, nab the perpetrators and ensure that justice is served without delay.

“The authorities must also take urgent measures to protect vulnerable villages and prevent further attacks on innocent civilians,” it said.

Separate administration

The Kuki-Zo Council condemned the attack, saying the ongoing atrocities against the Kuki-Zo people reaffirmed the legitimacy of the demand for self-government.

“We therefore call on the Government of India to expedite a political solution to our long-standing demands so that the Kuki-Zo people can live in peace, security and dignity like any other citizen of India,” the statement said.

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh also condemned the “brutal” and “cowardly” attack that resulted in the killing of three civilians.

“The deliberate targeting of unarmed civilians is totally unacceptable and the government will not spare those responsible for this barbaric act,” he said and asked the state police and central security agencies to nab the perpetrators as soon as possible.

He also instructed the authorities in the affected areas to strengthen security in the vulnerable areas and provide necessary assistance to the affected families.

Friday’s attack came less than 24 hours after the All Naga Students Association, Manipur, began a march from Ukhrul to a village in Kangpokpi district to meet the families of six Naga men who have been missing since three church leaders were killed on May 13.

Two Kuki organizations opposed the march, saying it could create tension as the route passes through Kuki-controlled areas.

Published – 05 June 2026 11:50 IST