Imphal: The United Naga Council (UNC) has condemned the killing of three civilians and injury of two others in an ambush at Sunurok Uyok, Khongbal Tangkhul, in Kangpokpi district, and called for the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
In a statement, the Naga apex body said the victims, whom it described as unarmed farmers, were collecting firewood when they were attacked around 9.30 am on October 19. It identified the deceased as Arubam Ronil, Lairenlakpam Inaobi and Ksh. Sushil, who died while undergoing treatment. Two others were seriously injured.
The UNC blamed armed Kuki militants for the attack. It also referred to a separate incident in which two Nepali civilians were injured in an attack while travelling along National Highway 202 on the Imphal–Ukhrul route.
“This is not an isolated case,” the statement said, describing the incidents as part of a widening pattern of attacks on civilians. It said the targeting of farmers and travellers threatened public safety and peaceful coexistence in Manipur.
The council mourned those killed and expressed solidarity with their families. It also wished the injured a full recovery.
The UNC urged the state and central governments to investigate both incidents, arrest and prosecute those responsible, and provide security for farmers and travellers along the Imphal–Ukhrul route and other national highways.
It also voiced support for public calls for justice and for victims of targeted violence.
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