16 feared killed in factional clashes among Kuki militants
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Newmai News Network

Imphal, July 24 2010: Around 1500 villagers from six villages fled from their homesteads and many of them were reportedly displaced while some of them are taking shelters in different parts of Manipur following fierce gun battles between rival Kuki militant groups in the border areas of Senapati district and Imphal East district.

In the mean time, a relief camp sponsored by some village volunteers has been opened at the community hall in Itham village which is located near the six villages bordering Senapati district and Imphal East district.

Displaced Kuki villagers taking shelter in a house

The six villages included Seichang, Bungbal, Chaning, Salem, Bongjang and Kamusaichang village.

Atleast 16 cadres from both the rival parties were killed in the gun battle while one civilian got bullet injury in the cross-fire, according to various sources.

The sources said that 16 deceased cadres of both rival groups Kuki National Front (KNF-P) on one side while combined team of Kuki Liberation Army (KLA) and Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA) on the other started the gun fight since the morning of July 21 .

The sources further said that at least 10 cadres have been wounded of which some of them are undergoing treatment in hospitals.

Both the rival groups are signatories to Suspension of Operation (SoO).

A villager who fled from his homestead disclosed that the gun fight is still continuing as the sound of gun shots can be heard after a gap of every 20-30 minutes from different directions.

The displaced and anguished villager is taking shelter in one of his relatives in Imphal presently.

The reason behind the gun fight between the rival groups was said to be over area domination which has become the 'bone of contention' for both the groups, according to the sources, adding that there have been two-three clashes in the past for the same reason.