UKHRUL: The lone survivor of the Pilong killings has alleged that the Kuki National Army-Burma (KNA-B) was responsible for the attack that left four Tangkhul Naga civilians dead in Kamjong district on Thursday. The killings occurred at Pilong village along the Indo-Myanmar border.
Speaking at a condolence service held at Kamjong Headquarters today, survivor Varekan Kaping alleged that the attackers were KNA-B cadres, citing information received from people residing across the international border. The allegation could not be independently verified.
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Recounting the incident, Kaping said five civilians were staying at the Pilong settlement when the armed men allegedly arrived and launched the attack. According to him, the five were stationed separately, with four of them staying in the upper portion of the settlement.
“I was taking a nap during the hot afternoon when I suddenly heard gunshots. I ran out and fled towards the jungle to save my life,” Kaping recounted.
He said he remained in hiding until the attackers left. When he later emerged from his hideout, he found the lifeless bodies of his companions.
Kaping said he subsequently moved towards the hill, where Tangkhul civil society representatives contacted and assisted him.
The condolence service, held from 1:30 pm to 3:40 pm, was attended by Phungyar MLA Leishiyo Keishing, Kamjong Deputy Commissioner, religious leaders and representatives of various civil society organisations.
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Among those present were Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) president Sword Vashum, Tangkhul Shanao Long president Thingreiphi Lunghar, Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) president Ramreichan Keishing, along with members of their respective organisations.
The bodies of the four victims were subsequently taken to their respective villages for customary funeral rites and burial.
