Firing In Manipur Again. Two Dead, Seven Injured, Say Police

Guwahati:

After days of lull, fresh exchange of heavy fire has been reported from the border area of Kuki-dominated Churachandpur and Meitei-dominated Bishnupur districts.

Manipur Police said two persons died in the firing in villages adjoining Naransena. Seven people sustained bullet or splinter injuries. District Police, Assam Rifles, Army and Central forces deployed in the area responded and brought the situation under control, the police said.

The Indigenous Tribal Leaders Forum claimed a village volunteer was killed in firing at villages around Khoirentak area today. He has been identified as 30-year-old Jangminlun Gangte.

Heavy gunbattle is on between Khoirentak and Thinunggei area, sources added.

In another incident, a farmer was shot at by suspected militants from the foothills, sources added.

Salam Jotin, 40, son of Iboton — a resident of Naransena Ward number 8 — was shot while attending his paddy field at Thinungei Maning Leikai this morning.

He sustained bullet wounds on his chest and is receiving medical treatment at private hospital in Imphal. Doctors said his condition is serious.

Over 140 people have died in Manipur since violence flared up in the northeastern state in May.