Couple among three killed as gunmen attack Kuki village in Manipur

Three people including a young couple were killed and several homes were set on fire after unidentified gunmen attacked a Kuki-Zo village in Manipur's Kangpokpi district on June 5, deepening concerns over renewed violence in the state's hill areas.

According to police, the attack took place in Loibol Khullen village during the morning hours. A senior police official confirmed that three bodies had been recovered from the village following the assault by unidentified armed men.

Kuki-Zo organisations identified the victims as Letkhongam Haokip, 34, his wife Tinmary Haokip, 30, and Jangminlan Haokip, 34. Community groups also said that seven houses were set ablaze during the attack, leaving families displaced and residents gripped by fear.

While Kuki-Zo organizations have blamed Naga armed groups for the killings, police said the incident remains under investigation and no group has been officially held responsible so far.

Condemning the attack, Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body of the Kuki community, described the killings as a grave assault on civilians.

"Kuki Inpi Manipur unequivocally denounces this barbaric act of violence against unarmed civilians. The deliberate killing of innocent persons and the destruction of homes and livelihoods constitute a serious violation of human dignity and fundamental human rights," the organization said in a statement.

The body also called for the immediate arrest of those responsible and warned that it would not be held accountable for any consequences arising from what it described as a heinous crime.

Independent MLA Haokholet Kipgen also condemned the killings and urged authorities to take urgent measures to prevent further violence.

"I call upon the Central Forces, State Forces, and the Government of India to take immediate and decisive action to restore security in the area, protect vulnerable villages, prevent further attacks, and ensure that those responsible are held fully accountable under the law," Kipgen said. He also sought immediate relief and assistance for the affected families.

The attack comes at a time of heightened tensions between Naga and Kuki communities in Manipur's hill districts. The region is already witnessing a prolonged hostage crisis, with 14 Kuki villagers reportedly being held captive by Naga groups for more than three weeks. At the same time, six Naga men who were allegedly abducted remain missing, further deepening mistrust and uncertainty in the conflict-hit region.