KNA-B Denies Role in Arsoning of Three Tangkhul Villages Amid Allegations of Illegal Trade in Namlee

The Kuki National Army - Burma (KNA-B) has firmly denied involvement in the recent arson incidents reported in Namlee, Choro, and Wanglee villages of Kamjong district. In an official statement issued this morning, the group described the reports as “false and malicious,” condemning media outlets for publishing what it called unverified and irresponsible claims.

“The KNA-B is not involved in any activities within Indian territory,” the statement said. “Reckless reporting only fuels paranoia, consternation, and instability in an already fragile region.” The group reiterated its mission to restore democracy in Myanmar and emphasized calls for peace and dialogue, urging communities in Ukhrul and Kamjong to avoid escalating tensions into ethnic conflict.

The KNA-B further warned against misrepresentations of its strategic posture, stating: “Do not mistake our strategic patience for an absence of power, nor our focus on justice in Myanmar for a blindness to daggers thrown at our back.”

Meanwhile, Major Digvijay Singh Rawat, a Kirti Chakra awardee claimed that Namlee village has become a hub for illegal trade in drugs and timber from Myanmar.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Major Rawat alleged that the entire village, along with militants, forest department officials, and local politicians, profited from such activities between 2018 and 2024. He criticized the village authorities for obstructing Indian Army movement despite their alleged involvement in illegal trade.