Imphal, December 29: A civilian was caught in a cross-fire between Imphal East commandos and UG cadres at Simol and Samusang area under Imphal East district this afternoon.

The injured civilian identified as Yumkhaibam Ingocha s/o Modhu of Yaingangpokpi Awang Leikai is being treated at RIMS.

A bullet which hit him in the left shoulder is now lodged in the chest.

According to sources, a police team led by SDPO Imphal East and commando OC rushed to Simol village on receiving information about presence of some UG cadres there.

As the police team approached Simol village which is located about 7/8 kms North of Lamlai police station, UG cadres opened fire towards the commandos resulting in some minor damages to the vehicles carrying the SDPO and the commando OC.

On getting information of the shoot-out, reinforcements from Imphal East commandos and 115th Bn BSF rushed to the spot.

As the two sides exchanged fire for about an hour and half, some civilians sustained injuries.

Meanwhile, KNO/KLA publicity secretary Armstrong Gangte has strongly condemned the alleged act of indiscriminate firing by police commandos thereby causing injuries to two civilians.

Since the Kuki UG groups entered into Suspension of Operation agreement with central security forces, KNO/KLA cadres have been staying at Simol and Samusang area.

But all of a sudden, police commandos launched an intense attack against the position of the KNO/KLA cadres at about 1.30 pm today, Armstrong said.

The KNO/KLA cadres retaliated only after the civilians of the two villagers were allowed to flee to safer places.

In the ensuing gun fight, a commando personnel was injured besides causing substantial damage to a police Gypsy, claimed Armstrong.

As for the outfit, there was no casualty on the part of its cadres, he added.

Armstrong condemned the police offensive which resulted in juries to civilians and death of two cows even as the SoO pact is in place.