Imphal, Oct 19 (NVI): Three Meitei villagers were killed and four others injured after suspected armed militants opened fire on a group of firewood collectors in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Monday morning, police said.
The incident took place at Khongbal Tangkhul under Sagolmang police station when the suspected militants allegedly opened fire on around 14 Meitei villagers who had gone to collect firewood, according to information provided by the Manipur Police.
Three villagers succumbed to their bullet injuries, while four others sustained injuries in the firing, officials said. The injured were evacuated from the area and are undergoing medical treatment.
Manipur Police, in coordination with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Army, Assam Rifles and other security agencies, is taking measures to maintain law and order, prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of civilians, the police said.
The police said intensified action would be taken against those involved in the incident. All necessary legal and operational measures would be pursued to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice, it added.
The police also appealed to all sections of society to cooperate with security forces and the administration in maintaining peace and preventing further violence.
Further details about the incident were awaited.—(NVI)
