Manipur: Fresh Arson Attacks in Kangpokpi Destroy 12 Houses and Church
Kangpokpi, Manipur: Fresh incidents of arson have been reported from the fringe areas of Manipur’s Kangpokpi district, where armed attackers allegedly set fire to at least 12 houses and a church in separate incidents amid continuing tensions in the region.
No casualties were reported in the latest attacks, but the incidents have left residents shaken and raised renewed concerns over the security situation in vulnerable border areas.
Nine Houses and Church Burnt in Tokpa Liangmai Village
The latest incident was reported from Tokpa Liangmai Naga village near Tumnoupokpi Thangal on the night of August 11.
According to local sources, armed attackers allegedly entered the area at around 9:30 pm, opened fire and subsequently set fire to around nine kutcha houses.
Residents from neighbouring areas reportedly rushed to the village after the attack to help contain the flames and assist affected families.
State police and central security forces also reached the location and secured the area following the incident.
The Liangmai Naga Council, Manipur, strongly condemned the attack and said that nine houses and a local church were reduced to ashes during the incident.
The council described the targeting of civilian homes and a place of worship as a serious and reprehensible act of violence.
Church Targeted During Arson Attack
The reported burning of the church has added another dimension to the latest incident.
The Liangmai Naga Council called for the immediate arrest of those responsible and urged authorities to take stronger measures to protect civilians and religious places in vulnerable areas.
The council also expressed concern over the security situation along the fringe and border areas of Kangpokpi, particularly amid continuing political discussions concerning regional security and highway blockades.
Three Houses Burnt in Kailenjang
The latest arson incident follows another attack reported on August 10 at Kailenjang Kuki village, located along the Kangpokpi-Senapati border area.
Three residential houses, including the home of the village chief, were reportedly set ablaze following an armed attack.
Local residents suspected the involvement of NSCN-IM, although there was no official confirmation regarding the identity of those responsible.
The incident had already raised concerns about security arrangements in the sensitive fringe areas between Kangpokpi and Senapati districts.
Security Concerns Grow in Fringe Areas
The back-to-back incidents have intensified concerns over the safety of civilians living in vulnerable villages across Kangpokpi district.
Residents have raised questions about the ability of security forces to prevent armed groups from entering settlements and carrying out attacks despite the presence of security personnel in some areas.
The latest incidents have also increased pressure on authorities to strengthen security deployments in sensitive border and fringe locations.
Liangmai Naga Council Demands Action
The Liangmai Naga Council has demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible for the latest attack.
The organisation also called on the authorities to improve security arrangements in vulnerable areas and ensure that civilian settlements are adequately protected.
The council’s condemnation comes at a time when Manipur continues to face a complex security and political situation, with discussions over regional security and highway blockades also underway.
Investigation Awaited
Security forces are continuing to monitor the affected areas, while further investigation is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the attacks and identify those responsible.
The latest incidents underscore the continuing security challenges faced by civilians living in the fringe areas of Kangpokpi and neighbouring districts.
Disclaimer: Details concerning the identity and affiliation of the attackers are based on allegations and statements attributed to local sources and community organisations. There was no official confirmation of the alleged involvement of any particular organisation at the time of reporting. Further investigation by the authorities is awaited.
