GUWAHATI: At least three Kuki church leaders were killed and four others seriously injured in an armed ambush in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Wednesday morning, May 13, triggering an indefinite blockade along National Highway-2 and escalating tensions in the region.
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The deceased were identified as leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA), including former Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC) General Secretary Rev. V. Sitlhou, Rev. V. Kaigoulun, and Pastor Paogoulen.
According to reports, the attack took place between Kotjim and Kotlen areas in Kangpokpi district while the group was travelling in two vehicles. Security officials reportedly said said militant groups are suspected to be behind the ambush, although investigations are currently underway.
The incident comes amid the continuing ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur, which has persisted for nearly three years. It also follows rising tensions between Kuki and Tangkhul Naga groups since February this year in Ukhrul district.
The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust condemned the attack and alleged the involvement of NSCN-IM cadres in collusion with ZUF, describing the incident as a “premeditated act” aimed at disrupting peace efforts.
Following the killings, the Kuki Students' Organisation, Churachandpur district, announced an emergency indefinite shutdown from 12:30 PM on Wednesday. The organisation condemned what it termed a “heinous ambush and brutal killing” of innocent church leaders.
The student body also alleged failure on the part of state law enforcement agencies to contain the activities of armed groups and appealed for public cooperation during the shutdown. Essential services including medical emergencies, electricity supply, media operations, and religious ceremonies have been exempted from the blockade.
Meanwhile, the Kuki Inpi Manipur strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “cowardly and barbaric ambush” targeting Kuki-Zo church leaders and civilians.