Two cadres of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA) were killed and two others injured during a joint operation by the Indian Army and Assam Rifles in Manipur’s Churachandpur district, officials said.
The operation was conducted at a UKNA camp in Phaibong village under Henglep subdivision following specific intelligence inputs. Security forces reportedly launched the operation on August 29 and maintained surveillance over the suspected camp before beginning a tactical advance early on September 2.
According to security officials, the UKNA cadres opened fire as troops approached the camp. The security forces retaliated with controlled fire, resulting in the deaths of two cadres and injuries to two others. The remaining members reportedly withdrew from the area.
A subsequent search of the camp led to the recovery of several weapons and ammunition, including MA rifles, an AK-56 rifle, a Lathode gun, grenades, magazines and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. Combat uniforms and ammunition pouches were also recovered.
The temporary camp was subsequently dismantled, while security forces continued search and combing operations in the surrounding areas.
The UKNA is not a signatory to the Suspension of Operations agreement between the Centre, Manipur government and several Kuki-Zomi armed groups. The latest operation highlights continued security efforts against armed groups operating outside the ceasefire framework in the state.