Kuki militants continue to hoist flags, build bunkers
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, June 29 2023:
There has been an increase in Kuki militants erecting flags and setting up bunkers at Tongbram Kollup in Phoubakchao Ikhai Awang Leikai.
After Kuki militants set fire to the only seven houses in Tongbram Kollup, they hoisted flag atop the lone remaining house, which was not burned down, on Thursday and set up a bunker in the area.
As per the BSF, the seven Meitei houses which were set on fire are located at Tongbram Leikai next to Chingkham Heikol at a distance of 300 metres.
At about 2pm, the Kuki militants fire several rounds and started building the bunker shortly after.
A flag belonging to the militants was erected next to the bunker.
According to a Meira Paibi member, the violence at Phoubakchao Ikhai Awang Leikai continues unabated.
Amid this, the Kuki militants came and hoisted their flags in the area.
The militants also stole the fish from the nearby areas.
The BSF present in the area did not warn the Kuki militants from entering the area but just stood by and watched it all unfold.
This has greatly frustrated the villagers.
In addition, after CM Biren's visit to the area and assurances to remove the bunkers soon, more 6 7 bunkers instead have been built.
She continued that the OC also has not taken the matter seriously and preventing the VDF personnel from firing to deter the militants.
As such, she urged for removing the security forces from the area since they are unable to protect the people and their property, while stating that the people of Phoubakchao are ready to die defending their village and the state.
At present, the Kuki militants are living in the unburned Meitei house and have erected flags, one near the house and another, a few metres away.
On the other hand, Phoubakchao police on instruction of top police officers have remove the flags, a report conveyed.