NSCN-IM duo slain, four taken captive after Nungba gunfight
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, July 28 2023:
In fierce firelight with Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF), two cadres of NSCN-IM have reportedly been killed and four cadres of the outfit taken captive by the ZUF.
The deceased NSCN-IM cadres have been identified as self-styled senior captain Angam Tangkhul (45) and self-styled captain Alen Chiru (43) .
According to sources, the gun-fight occurred at Reng-pang village near Nungba in Noney district at about 2.30am Friday.
In the clash lasting around half- an hour, two cadres of NSCN-IM were killed while four cadres fell into the hands of the rival.
According to our Noney correspondent, one civilian was also injured in the crossfire and administered first aid at Nungba Community Health Centre before being shifted to Imphal for further treatment.
Meanwhile, a large team of police rushed to the spot after hearing news of the fire-fight and conducted search operation.
However, no arrest could be made though Nungba police station has registered a case.
The incident comes two days after; the body of ZUF Makuilong region regional chairman Lt Diguplung alias Obed Kamei was recovered from Dailong village in Tamenglong district.
Kamei was allegedly captured on July 19 and his body was found with multiple bullet injuries.
Many outfits of the Zelian-rong Naga communities ave blamed the NSCN(IM) for the killing of Kamei.
They have demanded logical explanations for the killing and have also maintained that other Naga communities have their own insurgencies and political aspirations.
The conflict between dif ferent Naga insurgent groups in Manipur has been going on for decades.
The groups are fighting for different political goals, including the creation of a separate Naga homeland.
The NSCN(IM) is the largest and most powerful Naga insurgent "group.
It is currently in peace talks with the Centre.