Gun fight rocks Sekmai
Source: The Sangai Express
Kangpokpi, May 28 2023:
Tension ran high in Kangpokpi district as violence escalated in Manipur ahead of Home Minister Amit Shah's visit to the State.
Barely a day after the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs and the BJP National spokesperson visited Kangpokpi district, a fierce gun battle occurred on Saturday's midnight at Sekmai village, bordering Imphal West and Kangpokpi districts.
The incident at Sekmai village was reportedly a counter-offensive against Meitei groups who allegedly attacked Kuki villages located in border areas of Churachandpur and other Kuki dominated districts in the State.
A reliable source informed that more than 10 houses at Sekmai village were burnt down while many were suspected to be wounded and even killed during the fierce gunfight.
The alleged attack by the armed Meitei groups in Churachandpur reportedly took place between Gothol and Pholjang villages between 3 pm and 9 pm on May 27, and between 12.30 am to 1.30 pm on May 28 .
Reportedly, State commandos are also using 2-inch mortars in attacking tribal volunteers who were guarding the villages.
The Sekmai's counter-offensive attack lasted almost half an hour, during which one tribal Kuki volunteer was reportedly injured.
As the tension ran high in Kangpokpi district following the attack in Churachandpur district, enraged mob congregated along National Highway-2 at various locations, mainly at Kangpokpi Town, Keithelmanbi, Saparmeina, Motbung, and Gamgiphai.
The mob blocked the Highway with stones, concrete pipes, and also burnt tyres to restrict the movement of vehicles, mainly security vehicles towards Imphal side.
Kangpokpi SP who attempted to head to Gamgiphai was also restricted by the mob at Kangpokpi Town.
Another case of a counter-offensive attack was also reported from Saikul's Leitanpokpi area and Kangchup in Kangpokpi district.