Imphal: Fresh tensions erupted in Ukhrul’s Sinakeithei village after a series of alarming incidents, including arson, abduction and gunfire, were reported within the village jurisdiction on Monday.
According to the Sinakeithei Village Authority, the incidents were first reported at around 12:30 pm when unidentified arsonists travelling in a white Bolero vehicle, coming from the Leplen side towards Lapharak (Kuki village), stopped along the way and deliberately set fire to portions of the Lungter Hill Range under Sinakeithei village’s territorial jurisdiction.
The Sinakeithei Village Authority said they view the arson of the Lungter Hill Range not as an isolated act, but as a calculated strategy. They added that the fire was intentionally set to create confusion and to take advantage of the situation for their movement and activities in and around the area.
The situation further escalated the same day when a local farmer, identified as Aseng Awungshi, was abducted at the Lungter foothills by a Kuki armed group when he was on his way to his field within the Sinakeithei territorial area.
After he was forcibly taken to the upstream jungle, Awungshi was questioned about why he was going to his field. The armed group also interrogated him about the presence of police and other security forces in the village and further warned him not to move freely in the area.
Similarly, the Kuki armed group fired upon a local man identified as Kingson Muivah while he was fleeing after being ordered to stop. The firing was carried out as he attempted to escape, creating grave danger to his life and causing widespread panic among villagers.
The Sinakeithei Village Authority has condemned these acts of arson, attempted murder, abduction and firing upon unarmed civilians in the strongest terms and stated that such actions pose a direct threat to the safety, security and peaceful existence of the community.
The village authority has urgently called upon the concerned civil administration and security forces to take immediate action, conduct a thorough investigation and ensure adequate protection to prevent further escalation.
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