One hurt in factional clash
Source: The Sangai Express
Jiribam, December 15 2013:
One cadre of UTLA (Robert Singson group) was hurt when they were attacked by the rival UTLA (SK Thadou group) at Muktakhal area, about 15 Kms from here last night.
Some cadres of Robert Singson group were putting up at Muktakhal of Phaitol village when they were attacked by around 14/15 cadres of the SK Thadou group.
In the ensuing gun fight, one Lamsat Kuki of Pangmol village belonging to the Robert Singson group was hit by a bullet on the hand.
Even as a commando team posted here and troops of 27 Assam Rifles rushed to the encounter site soon after receiving information about the gun fight, there was no report of any arrest.
Taking strong exception to the gun fight, the Phaitol village chief appealed to all armed groups under SoO pact with the Government not to engage in such violent clashes in civilian areas.
Such clashes not only disturb public tranquillity but also create a fear psychosis among villagers, particularly women and children.
Robert Singson, chief commander of one of the two factions said that the unprovoked attack may well invite a strike back in revenge.
"Nonetheless, we want to maintain peace in view of the Christmas festival", Singson said.
In case the Government fails to take up befitting action against such armed groups which are deliberately derailing the peace process, the proposed peace talk may land in jeopardy, he said further.
UTLA (Robert Singson group) was attacked twice this year.
Moreover, one individual abducted by UTLA (SK Thadou group) a few months back cannot be traced till date, he added.
Subsequent upon last night's gun fight, Sunday church service was affected and church attendance was very low this morning.