Three people, including a woman, were killed after unidentified armed assailants launched a deadly attack on a village in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district during the early hours of Friday. According to officials, the incident took place around 4 a.m. in Loibol Khullen village under the Saitu-Gamphazol subdivision. The attack triggered a fierce exchange of gunfire between rival groups, creating panic among residents and forcing many villagers to flee their homes and seek safety in nearby forest areas.

Authorities said that at least seven houses were set ablaze during the violence, causing significant damage to property and leaving several families displaced. The victims were identified as Letkhongam Haokip, Tinmary Haokip, and Jangminlal Haokip. Security forces were alerted following the attack, and efforts are underway to assess the situation and prevent further escalation in the region. The incident has once again highlighted the fragile security situation in parts of Manipur, where ethnic tensions have continued to spark violent clashes.

The Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), the apex body representing Kuki tribes in the state, strongly condemned the attack and demanded an immediate investigation. In a statement, the organization described the killings as a barbaric act against unarmed civilians and said the destruction of homes and livelihoods was a serious violation of human rights and human dignity. KIM urged authorities to identify and arrest those responsible for the violence while ensuring justice for the victims and protection for vulnerable communities in the area.