SENAPATI: At least 41 Naga houses, including churches, were reportedly burnt during nearly 12 hours of violence in the Makui area of Kangpokpi district, according to local sources.
The affected villages include Makui Chamriupui, Makui Thanamba and Makui Thebram. Local sources said 17 houses were completely burnt in Makui Chamriupui, eight in Makui Thanamba and 16 in Makui Thebram.
The violence reportedly began around 2:30 pm on September 23 and continued until 2:30 am of September 24, with villagers alleging that the attacks were carried out by Kuki militants.
The Makui villagers expressed anger over the security arrangements in the area, questioning why security forces, including CRPF and IRB personnel reportedly stationed within 10 km of the affected villages, were unable to prevent the prolonged violence and destruction.
According to local villagers, they attempted to remain in the villages for nearly 12 hours but were eventually forced to flee after their homes were set ablaze. They have since moved towards Makui village.
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There were reports of sporadic clashes between members of Kuki and Naga armed groups on Thursday afternoon in the area. The reports could not be independently verified at the time of filing. The exact number of casualties, if any, also remains unconfirmed. Officials sources have negated any casualties so far.
