Kuki militants launch fresh attacks
Bid to burn Kwatha foiled
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 21 2023:
Kuki militants launched a fresh and fierce attack from Luwangshangol near Sekmai today.
Kuki militants opened incessant fire including mortar shells from Luwangshangol toward Khongnangpokpi Kom village, Phouintop Sabi and surrounding areas this afternoon.
In the face of the Kuki militants' fierce offensive, Meitei people of Shantipur, Awang Leikinthabi, Awang Sekmai Leipat, Awang Sekmai Parao and other nearby villages have fled to safer areas.
Kuki militants fired automatic rifles as well as mortar shells incessantly from 3.10 pm to 3.30 pm, sources informed.
After the firing, the Kuki militants constructed bunkers on the hill range of Phouintop Sabi and have occupied the area.
Meanwhile, it was reported that a brief gun fight took place between Kuki militants and village defence volunteers at Kongba Maru area at around 1.30 pm today.
On the other hand, Kukis of Moreh today made an abortive attempt to attack Kwatha village and burn down houses.
Around 2000 Kukis, including both men and women gathered at Moreh Kut Ground at around 10 am and held a rally under the aegis of the Kuki Women Union and Human Rights (KWUHR), Moreh.
The rally which started from Kut Ground went up to the gate of Forest Office, Moreh.
As soon as the rally ended at around 3 pm, the protesters transformed into a mob and they proceeded towards Kwatha village with alleged intention to attack and burn down the village.
They were stopped by troops of 5 Assam Rifles near the gate of Kwatha village.
Considering the vulnerability of Kwatha Khunou, all the residents of the village have been evacuated to Kwatha Khunjao.
As per Govt record, there are 87 houses and 319 people at Kwatha Khunjao and 13 houses and 45 people at Kwatha Khunou.
One company of Assam Rifles troops is currently deployed at Kwatha Khunjao, sources informed.