Civilians, including Women and Children, Fired Upon in Ukhrul–Kangpokpi Fringe Area

In a shocking escalation underscoring the deepening insecurity along the Ukhrul–Kangpokpi fringe, civilians—including women and children—were allegedly ambushed and fired upon by armed miscreants while returning from a shopping trip in Saikul, triggering widespread outrage and fear across the region.

The incident occurred along the stretch between Kuki-dominated Tingpibung and Leplen villages in Kangpokpi district, bordering Naga-dominated Sinakeithel village in Ukhrul district. Residents of Dongsom village, including women and children, were targeted while travelling in a private vehicle after returning from Saikul Hill Town. The deliberate attack on unarmed civilians has raised grave concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation and the apparent targeting of non-combatants.

A short video of the incident, widely circulating on social media, shows a male occupant holding his visibly terrified child while confronting security personnel, questioning how such an attack could occur despite their presence. He is seen urging immediate action to control the situation and prevent further violence.

The vehicle bore multiple bullet impacts on its lower portion. Had the bullets struck higher, the consequences could have been fatal.

Earlier in the day, at around 3:20 PM, another firing incident was reported along the hill range bordering Naga-dominated Sararikhong and Tongou villages and Kuki-dominated Songphel Mullam village in Ukhrul district. According to local sources, the exchange of fire erupted after armed miscreants allegedly ambushed Kuki Village Volunteers who were on a patrol mission to sanitise the area. One volunteer reportedly sustained minor injuries.

In a parallel incident around the same time, villagers from Songphel Mullam who had gone to repair an electricity fault also came under fire from armed miscreants. Although no casualties were reported, the act of targeting civilians engaged in essential services has further heightened fear and insecurity among residents.

The near-simultaneous attacks on civilians and patrol units point to a disturbing pattern of escalating violence across the fringe areas of Kangpokpi and Ukhrul districts. Locals describe the situation as increasingly volatile, with daily life overshadowed by the constant threat of sudden armed attacks.

With tensions running dangerously high, calls are intensifying for immediate and decisive intervention by authorities to restore order and ensure accountability for those responsible for targeting innocent civilians.

No official statement had been issued by security agencies at the time of filing this report. The situation remains tense and unpredictable.