TAMENGLONG: Three persons were reportedly killed and six others injured in a prolonged gunfight involving the Zeliangrong United Front-Jenchui (ZUF-J), and a combined team of Naga Army alliance, Zeliangrong United Front-Kamson (ZUF-K); National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM) at Taodaijang (Buanruang) village under Nungba police station in Noney district on Wednesday.
According to local sources, the gunfight broke out around 3:30 am and continued for several hours leaving two ZUF-J cadres and one ZUF-K cadre dead.
According to the latest inputs received, two ZUF-J cadres and one cadre of the ZUF-K/Naga Army alliance were killed in the exchange of fire.
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The deceased ZUF-J cadres have been identified as Mejianthui Thaimei of Lunglei village and Gainingam Kamson of Luangchum village. The deceased ZUF-K cadre was identified as Aihung Khumba of Pungmon Chingchen village.
Six cadres were also reportedly injured in the exchange of fire, including four from ZUF-J and two from ZUF-K. The ZUF-K injured is out of danger, sources said.
Sources further stated that three AK-series assault rifles and one HK rifle were captured from ZUF-J during the gunfight.
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Meanwhile, the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF-J) has issued a condolence message over the death of its two cadres, describing their deaths as a supreme sacrifice for the Zeliangrong people.
“Their names will live on in the history of our people and will continue to inspire the coming generations to love, protect and serve our motherland,” the condolence message stated.
Expressing solidarity with the bereaved families, the ZUF-J said the sacrifice of the two cadres would remain etched in the history of the Zeliangrong people.
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Earlier, women’s groups and community leaders from the area had rushed to the site in an attempt to stop the gunfight. However, the exchange of fire reportedly continued until morning.
The Rongmei Naga Luphuam, Nungba area, had also appealed to the armed groups to cease hostilities and give peace a chance.
