Ukhrul: Satkhohao Haokip, a self-styled Town Commander and Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the proscribed United Kuki National Army (UKNA), was reportedly shot dead at his residence in Churachandpur district, Manipur, by unknown assailants.
Sources suggest that Haokip was allegedly killed late Monday night by Kuki village volunteers, though the exact motive remains unclear at the time of this report. His body has been sent to the Churachandpur Medical College mortuary for further examination.
In a joint statement, Kuki civil society organizations (CSOs) strongly condemned the brutal killing of Haokip, a resident of Kaprang Village in Churachandpur. According to the statement, Haokip was abducted from his home in front of his family members before being killed. The statement was issued by leaders of Kuki Inpi Churachandpur, Kuki Chiefs’ Association, Kuki Khanglai Lawmpi headquarters, Kuki Students’ Organisation, and Kuki Women Union and Organisations for Human Rights.
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The CSOs expressed their dismay over the incident, stating, “In the midst of our ongoing conflict with our enemy, this internal violence is deeply unfortunate. The Kuki community will not accept any form of violence among us, and any group involved in this heinous crime will face condemnation from the Kuki populace.” The civil societies also urged the public to avoid violent acts in the future.
Meanwhile, fresh tensions have arisen in Manipur following the abduction of three Meitei youths on September 27 in Kangpokpi district. Security forces managed to rescue one of the youths, Ningombam Johnson Singh, following an intense search operation on the same day. However, the search continues for the two remaining youths, Oinam Thoithoi Singh from Thoubal Leishangthem Awang Leikai, and Thokchom Thoithoiba Singh from Thoubal Khekman Wangmataba Mayai Leikai.
In response, a 48-hour bandh was called in Thoubal district by a Joint Action Committee (JAC), demanding the safe release of the missing youths. The bandh resulted in the blockage of National Highway 102, causing significant disruption to vehicular movement.
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