Multiple gunfights between rival groups trigger fresh unrest in Ukhrul district
April 24, 2026: At least three people were killed and several others injured after multiple gunfights broke out in Ukhrul district of Manipur on Friday, police said. The violence reportedly began in the early hours near Sinakeithei village, where clashes erupted between Tangkhul Naga village volunteers and armed Kuki groups, escalating tensions in the region.
According to statements from community organisations, one of the deceased has been identified as a member of the Tangkhul Naga community from Kamjong district. Meanwhile, Kuki groups claimed that their volunteers were attacked in a separate incident at Mullam village, a Kuki-inhabited area. Police confirmed that another gunfight occurred in Mullam, with security forces later recovering bodies and rescuing injured villagers.
Authorities said the situation remains tense, with security forces deployed to prevent further escalation. The clashes come against the backdrop of ongoing ethnic tensions in the region, which have seen repeated incidents of violence in recent months. Officials are continuing to monitor the situation as efforts are made to restore calm.