Three Kuki church leaders killed in ambush in Manipur's Kangpokpi
Three Kuki church leaders killed in ambush in Manipur's Kangpokpi
Three Kuki church leaders returning from a conference were shot dead in an ambush at Kangpokpi, Manipur, with several others injured as investigations begin.
Three people were killed and several injured in an ambush by suspected militants between Kotzim and Kotlen in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Wednesday. The victims were members of the Thadou Baptist Association, including V. Sitlhou, a TBA leader and former general secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention. The church leaders were travelling in two vehicles back to Kangpokpi from Churachandpur after attending a TBA conference when they were ambushed. The number of fatalities and injuries has yet to be confirmed at the time of filing.
A statement from the Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust demanded action against those involved and pledged ex-gratia, rehabilitation, and lifelong support for the bereaved families. The group blamed the NSCN-IM and ZUF factions for the ambush, prompting calls for accountability and a thorough investigation.
Organisations belonging to the Thadou community condemned the attack and imposed a total, indefinite shutdown along the Imphal-Dimapur National Highway-2 with immediate effect, signaling the community’s demand for answers and safety for clergy and drivers alike.
