Ukhrul: The United National Liberation Front of Manipur has said that its cadre, Sergeant Baspatimayum Heithoiba was killed in a fierce battle that erupted in Jiribam district on September 7.
The deceased cadre, also known as Lakshikumar, of the Manipur People’s Army (MPA), the military wing of UNLF, the press statement said was a senior member of the military wing of the outfit who was born in Dibong Khunou, Jiribam, and joined the UNLF in 2002 at the age of 16.
UNLF-MPA said that Lakshikumar laid down his life while defending the people and the territorial integrity of Manipur when he engaged in a confrontation with “Kuki terrorist” in the Nungchappi area when he was fatally wounded.
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Recently posted in his native Jiribam, Heithoiba was leading an MPA team that engaged with armed Kuki militants following a deadly attack on a local civilian. The confrontation resulted in an intense gunfight, during which Heithoiba was mortally wounded.
“On the morning of 7th September, some terrorists from outside Manipur armed with assault rifles killed an innocent man in Jiribam. As soon as news of the dastardly attack came, a team of the MPA led by Sgt. Heithoiba went in pursuit of the attackers. The team managed to push back the enemies in the first round of fighting that followed. Unfortunately, Sgt. Heithoiba was mortally wounded during the second round of fighting by enemies who had concealed themselves and he passed away around 9:30am,” the UNLF-MPA statement said.
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The outfit also said that Sergeant Baspatimayum Heithoiba throughout his career displayed exceptional courage, participating in several key operations, including the Somtal campaigns in Chandel District, it added.
UNLF-MPA paid tribute to the fallen soldier, describing him as a true patriot dedicated to the liberation of Manipur. “Heithoiba has left behind his dear family, especially his wife and three daughters. His youngest daughter is just 6 months old. His passing has left a void and a pall of gloom has descended over his family and friends. The UNLF and its military wing the MPA joins his near and dear ones in mourning the loss of a bright son of Manipur,” the statement said.
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