A farmer belonging to the Tangkhul Naga community was reportedly injured in a latest attack by Kuki militants on Monday, while attacks by Kuki militants escalated in Manipur with many innocents being either killed or injured.
According to sources, the injured farmer has been identified as Kanshok, 32 years, son of Peter from New Canan.
The incident reportedly occurred at a paddy field in Thamnapokpi Shantikhongbal, where around nine farmers, including eight Tangkhul and one Nepali were working.
The field is located 1 km North of Yaingangpokpi Police Station in Imphal East district around 9.35 am, sources added.
The farmers reportedly heard sounds of gunshots in the area around 9.20 am. It is said that the militants fired the shots from atop Uyokching.
Villagers of Thamnapokpi recollected seeing the farmers lowering themselves down upon hearing sounds of gunshots. They were not seen getting up long after the shooting stopped, the villagers stated and mentioned that they saw an injured farmer crawling out from the field.
The injured farmer was immediately rushed to Yangangpokpi PHC and administered first aid. He was later referred to JNIMS for further treatment. Reports said that he is out of harm’s way and has been discharged from the hospital.
Meanwhile, upon hearing news of the shooting, OC Yangangpokpi, BSF rushed to the area and rescued the remaining farmers.
On the other hand, a team led by two Additional SPs of Imphal East District, BSF and a combined force of Mahar Regiment also dismantled some bunkers at Uyokching and Thamnapokpi area. However, no arms and ammunition were seized, sources said.
Meanwhile, the post mortem examination of the body of Sapam Sophia who was killed by Kuki militants was conducted at RIMS mortuary on Monday. The body is being kept at the mortuary in view of the prevailing tension.
