Imphal, December 13: Two suspected KYKL cadres were killed in an encounter with troops of 21 Assam Rifles at Yelang Khangpokpi, about 5 kms South West of Waikhong police station at around 11.30 last night.

A press release issued by the PRO of Hqs IG AR (S) informed that troops of 21 AR, based on a specific information, established a mobile check post in yelang Khangpokpi area last night.

At about 11.30 pm, two individuals on Yamaha motorcycle approached the check post from Wabagai side.

On being challenged, the individuals fired upon the troops which was retaliated resulting in the killing of the two.

Two Chinese made pistols, 44 live rounds, two mobile phone handsets along with extra SIM card, a Yamaha motorcycle (MN-1M 0226) and Rs 16,640 in cash were recovered from the slain youths., it added.

According to the report given by AR to police, the AR troops were frisking vehicles at Yelang Khangpokpi at about 11.30 pm yesterday when two youths approached the spot on a motorcycle (Enticer).

However, when the AR personnel signalled them to stop, they opened fire and tried to make their escape.

As the AR troops retaliated, both of them were killed on the spot.

The two deceased have been identified as Takhellambam Gyaneshwar alias Jutin (27) s/o T Birkumar of Wangoo Hodam Leirak and Laishram Surchandra alias Loya (32) s/o late Bhubon of Nungoo Chingyapat.

The family members have confirmed that both Gyaneshwar and Surchandra were cadres of the proscribed KYKL.

T Gyaneshwar was a married man having a son and a daughter.

It is reported that he joined KYKL after his marriage.

Yet he did not always stay away from home.

L Surchandra too joined the outfit just about a year back after marriage.

He left behind a daughter and two sons.

According to family members, Surchandra stayed at home most of the time.

With the registration of a case in connection with the incident in Waikhong police station, the corpses have been handed over to respective family members after post mortem at Lilong PHC this afternoon.

Gyaneshwar was hit by several bullets on chest, armpit, left shoulder and left abdomen.

A bullet which hit Surchandra on the left side of face exited through the neck.

Two other bullet marks were also observed on the waist.