Tamenglong skirmish still on, shoot out at Chandel
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 03 2012:
Another factional clash took place between NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K)-ZUF combined today near Bhalok (Phalong) village in Tamenglong district even as tension continues to simmer at Tamenglong district headquarters following a factional gun fight among underground groups yesterday which claimed the life of a civilian.
No casualty from both the warring sides could be confirmed immediately today.
At the same time, Assam Rifles troops have moved into the area where the shoot-out took place, said sources.
It may be mentioned that a carpenter from Bamgaijang, identified as Jaikalung was killed by stray bullets during an encounter between the militant groups at Tamenglong headquarters yesterday.
Following the encounter yesterday, people of Tamenglong had launched a campaign to drive out all militants from the area.
The ZUF, NSCN (K) on one side and the NSCN (IM) on the other have been engaged in a turf war at Tamenglong for long.
Meanwhile, in an unrelated incident, troops of 24 Assam Rifles were engaged in a gun fight by suspected militants near Border Pillar No 80 along Indo-Myanmar border in Chandel district today.
Police source said an encounter between troops of 24 AR and suspected militants took place around 4.30pm today near Haikot village, around 65 km North of Tengnoupal PS, which is also adjacent to border pillar No 80 in Chandel district.
Exchange of gunfire followed when the AR troops came across an IED planted by suspected militants in the area.
There is no report of casualty on either side.
A reliable source said AR troops moved towards Sita and while not elaborating said that 'something' did happen.