Three civilians were killed and at least three others injured after armed assailants opened fire on villagers collecting firewood near Nongshum and Khongbal Tangkhul village, along the Imphal East–Kangpokpi district boundary, at around 9:30 am on October 19, 2026.
According to reports, two victims died at the scene, while the third succumbed to his injuries at Raj Medicity Hospital in Imphal. The injured were evacuated for medical treatment, and security forces rushed to the area following the incident.
The deceased have been identified as Arubam Ronil, approximately 35, son of Raja; Lairenlakpam Inaobi, 44, son of Tombi; and Kh. Sushil, 32. All three were residents of Nongshum.
The injured were identified as Meisnam Somendro Meitei, 54, of Uyumpok Nungshum; Ngangom Suraj Meitei, 19, of Nungshum; and Khondram Basaunte Meitei, 46, of Uyumpok Mamang Leikai. They sustained injuries to different parts of their bodies.
The incident triggered widespread anger among residents, with protesters bringing the bodies of two victims to the entrance of the Chief Minister’s bungalow in Imphal. Demonstrators also blocked roads at Khurai Lamlong, demanding accountability and immediate action to ensure the safety of civilians.
Meanwhile, the Khamenlok Area Core Committee (KACCO) strongly condemned the killings and expressed condolences to the bereaved families. The committee called on the government, security forces and the public to take urgent measures to protect civilians and prevent further violence.
KACCO stated that the killings had dealt another setback to efforts aimed at rehabilitation, reconstruction and peaceful coexistence in the region. It reiterated that violence could not resolve underlying issues and urged all parties to respect human life and refrain from actions that could further deepen communal tensions.
The committee also cautioned against the circulation of unverified information and alleged attempts to exploit the incident to inflame tensions or implicate particular groups. It appealed to civil society organisations, the media and the public to verify information before sharing it.
The identities of the attackers and the circumstances surrounding the shooting had not been officially established at the time of reporting. The incident has renewed concerns over civilian safety in the region and raised questions about the measures being taken to prevent further attacks.