Four civilians, including two women, were killed after suspected militants opened fire on two vehicles travelling along the Imphal-Ukhrul road in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Friday, November 13. The incident took place near New Haven, along National Highway 202, raising fresh concerns over civilian safety and the deteriorating security situation in the region.
Mother-Son Duo Among Those Killed
According to police, the victims were travelling towards Imphal in two separate vehicles when armed attackers ambushed them. The deceased were identified as Kapangkhui RS and Haoleila RS, residents of Shangshak village, and August Ngalung and Khanmila, residents of Tashar village.
The two victims from Shangshak were siblings, while the other two were a mother and her son. All four sustained fatal bullet injuries and died at the spot. Bullet marks were also found on the windshields of both vehicles.
Security Forces Launch Search Operations
Following the attack, additional security personnel, including Manipur Police, the Border Security Force, the Army and Assam Rifles, were rushed to the area. Search and cordon operations were launched to trace the attackers and prevent further violence.
The incident has raised questions about existing security arrangements along the vulnerable highway. Although security escorts have been provided to civilian vehicles on a stretch of the route, Friday’s attack occurred outside the protected section.
Fresh Tensions Amid Continuing Violence
The killings came just a day after a 42-year-old Kuki woman was shot dead during a separate armed confrontation near Taphou Kuki village, close to the Kangpokpi-Senapati district border. Two other people were also injured in that incident.
Meanwhile, a 48-hour shutdown called by the Committee on Tribal Unity affected normal life in Kangpokpi district.
The latest killings have intensified concerns over recurring attacks, civilian movement and law and order in Manipur. Police investigations are underway, and the identities and motives of those responsible for the ambush are yet to be established.