Ukhrul, 4 Nov|EKHON: Suspected Kuki armed militants allegedly opened fire on a convoy of civilian vehicles along National Highway-202 (Imphal–Ukhrul Road), near Roudei village under T.M. Kasom, close to the Industrial Estate, triggering panic among commuters between 4.30 to 5 pm. No casualties were reported in the incident.
According to reports, four trucks and a Winger taxi came under attack when the vehicles were travelling along the highway. Close to 100 rounds of ammunition were reportedly fired during the attack.
The truck drivers, identified as Rashidul, Islam, Vicky Lamkadi, Abhijur and Eichar, were reportedly moved to Litan Police Station, where they are currently taking shelter under police protection.
The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of civilians travelling along NH-202, particularly as the same stretch had earlier witnessed an ambush in which two Tangkhul travellers were killed.
One of the travellers, Zeinorin Stephen, who was present during the incident, recounted her ordeal in a social media post. She said the group had taken a security escort while travelling from Imphal to Ukhrul.
According to her account, the escort comprised a Yodha vehicle and four security personnel. However, when the convoy stopped at Litan, between Leimangching and T.M. Kasom, multiple rounds of gunfire were directed at moving vehicles.
She said the Winger driver managed to escape by taking cover in the narrow space between the trucks before speeding away as the firing continued.
Although no one sustained physical injuries, Stephen said the incident had left travellers traumatised and raised serious questions about civilian security and the disruption of essential supplies.
Expressing anguish over the recurring threat to commuters, she questioned who would take responsibility for ensuring the safe passage of civilians.
She also questioned whether ordinary people would continue to be forced to risk their lives simply to travel, work and access basic necessities in their own homeland.
The latest attack has heightened apprehensions among residents and transport operators who depend on the Imphal–Ukhrul highway for daily travel and the movement of essential commodities.
In view of the security situation, travellers have been strongly advised to avoid NH-202 (Ukhrul–Imphal Road) until further notice.
