Two Kuki-Zo women killed in Manipur's Tamenglong district, several reported missing

Two Kuki-Zo women were killed and several people were reported missing after an attack at Leisang Kuki village in Tamenglong district of Manipur, according to local sources.

The incident reportedly took place when the victims and other villagers were at their farm areas. Several farmhouses were also reportedly set ablaze during the attack.

The deceased have been identified as Chonga Sitlhou, 60, wife of late Seidou Sitlhou, and Kimboi Singson, 30, daughter of Paosei Singson, both residents of Leisang village.

According to local sources, the attackers were allegedly armed militants. The claim has not been independently verified, and the circumstances surrounding the attack are yet to be officially established.

Kimboi, who had recently completed her nursing studies, was reportedly helping her family at their farm when the incident occurred.

Several others who had gone to their farms were reportedly unaccounted for following the attack, raising concerns among residents about their safety.

The incident comes two days after four Kuki-Zo civilians, including a married couple, were killed in separate incidents at Tollen and Longpi in Tamenglong district on September 13.

Those killings had triggered condemnation from various quarters, with calls for a thorough investigation into the attacks and action against those responsible.

The latest incident has renewed concerns over the safety of civilians living in remote and vulnerable areas of Tamenglong. Many families in such areas continue to depend on farm settlements for their livelihood despite security risks associated with travelling to and staying in isolated locations.

With several people still reportedly missing, local residents are seeking greater security presence in the area and a prompt investigation into the incident.

Authorities are yet to establish the identity of the attackers or the exact sequence of events leading to the deaths.