Kamjong, Manipur | EKHON: In a major security breach, three Tangkhul Naga villages in Kamjong district of Manipur reportedly came under coordinated attack before dawn on Thursday by suspected Kuki National Army-Burma (KNA-B) militants allegedly backed by Myanmar’s People’s Defence Force (PDF).
Around 3:30 AM, Choro, Wanglee, and Namlee were attacked along the India-Myanmar border. Local groups said armed militants linked to the KNA-B backed by PDF used drones, rocket launchers, gunfire, and lathode guns, causing extensive damage to homes and forcing villagers to flee into nearby forests for safety.Â
Residents and local leaders claimed that several houses were burnt down during the assault. In Choro village, more than 15 houses were reportedly destroyed and one civilian sustained gunshot injuries. In Namlee, a woman was allegedly shot in the thigh while another house was set ablaze. Two additional houses were reportedly reduced to ashes in Wanglee village under Kasom Khullen subdivision.
Villagers further alleged that armed assailants looted properties and fired indiscriminately, creating panic among women, children, and elderly residents. Several families are currently said to be sheltering in jungle areas without adequate humanitarian support, while some persons remain reportedly unaccounted for.
What is even more troubling is the attacks are said to have taken place close to an Assam Rifles deployment area between Choro and Aloyo, prompting questions and criticism from sections of the local population regarding the response of security forces stationed in the region. Community organisations have expressed concern over the inadequate intervention during the attacks.
Some local groups have also raised allegations regarding possible lapses in intelligence and security coordination.
The developments have intensified concerns over cross-border militant movement and the vulnerability of villages situated along the Indo-Myanmar frontier. Civil society organisations from the Tangkhul Naga community condemned the attacks as a direct threat to civilian safety, territorial security, and peace in the border region.
The organisations also pointed out that many border villages had previously sheltered civilians fleeing unrest in Myanmar following the conflict between resistance groups and the military junta there.
Community leaders have urged the Government of India, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and security agencies to immediately reinforce border security, provide humanitarian assistance to displaced villagers, investigate the attacks thoroughly, and ensure accountability for any security lapses.
