Three Church Leaders Killed In Armed Attack In Manipur’s Kangpokpi, Several Injured
Three church leaders killed in Manipur ambush in Kangpokpi.
At least three church leaders were shot dead and several others injured after unidentified armed men ambushed two vehicles in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Wednesday, in an attack that has further escalated tensions in the violence-hit region. The incident prompted an immediate blockade along National Highway-2 (NH-2), a key route connecting Manipur with Nagaland and other parts of northeastern India.
The victims were members of the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA), including former Manipur Baptist Convention General Secretary Rev. V. Sitlhou, along with Rev. V. Kaigoulun and Pastor Paogoulen. According to initial reports, the group was returning to Kangpokpi from Churachandpur district after attending a TBA conference in Lamka when they were attacked midway.
Authorities said at least five other individuals were injured in the ambush and are currently undergoing treatment at nearby medical facilities. The injured include clergy members and vehicle drivers who were part of the convoy. Police have not yet confirmed the identity of the attackers, and investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances behind the assault.
Also Read: Nine Arrested After Mob Attacks Cattle Transporters And Police In Telangana Ahead Of Bakrid
The attack has triggered widespread tension in Kangpokpi and surrounding Kuki-Zo inhabited areas, with local groups calling for heightened security and accountability. The blockade on NH-2, a critical supply and transit corridor, has further disrupted movement in the region, adding to concerns over law and order in an already sensitive security environment.Community reactions have been strong, with leaders from the Thadou community expressing grief over the killings.
Manipur BJP spokesperson and Thadou leader Michael Lamjathang Thadou condemned the incident and highlighted the community’s suffering amid ongoing violence in the state, while also asserting the distinct identity of the Thadou people.Security forces have been deployed in the area to prevent further escalation, and officials have urged calm as investigations continue. The incident adds to the continuing cycle of ethnic violence in Manipur, where sporadic clashes and targeted attacks have repeatedly strained peace efforts in recent months.
Also Read: Bharat NCAP Retested Seven Cars Before Issuing Crash Test Results, RTI Finds
