Manipur Violence Deepens: Four Civilians Killed in Two Days, Three Suspects Arrested as Shutdowns Hit State

Fresh violence has heightened tensions in Manipur after a 45-year-old Kuki man was shot dead in Kangpokpi district, a day after three Meitei villagers were killed in a separate attack. The back-to-back killings have triggered shutdowns, intensified security operations and renewed fears over the safety of civilians in the conflict-hit state.

The latest victim, Paolen Khongsai, a resident of P Molding village, was collecting bamboo shoots with another person in a forest area when suspected militants opened fire around 8 am on Tuesday, police said. His companion escaped unharmed. A case has been registered at Leimakhong police station, but the attackers have not been conclusively identified.

The killing came a day after suspected militants allegedly ambushed 14 Meitei firewood collectors in Kangpokpi, killing three and injuring three others. Police have arrested three suspects in connection with that attack. Two of them reportedly admitted being part of the assault team, while the role of the third suspect remains under investigation.

Security forces have also recovered 12 firearms, 1,095 rounds of ammunition, explosives, grenades and communication equipment during operations linked to the investigation.

The successive killings have sparked protests and shutdowns across communities. The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) called a 24-hour total shutdown in Kangpokpi from midnight on Tuesday, demanding attention to the deaths of Kuki civilians and the community’s continuing security concerns. Essential and life-saving services were exempted.

Separately, a 48-hour shutdown called by the Native People Committee Manipur over the killing of the three Meitei civilians disrupted normal life in several Imphal Valley districts, affecting markets, shops, schools and public transport.

In another disturbing development, six Kuki houses were reportedly set ablaze in Ukhrul, adding to concerns over attacks on homes and civilian property amid the deteriorating situation.

Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has condemned the killings of the Meitei civilians and directed officials to strengthen security in vulnerable areas. Search operations have also been intensified.