Security forces launched a large-scale cordon-and-search operation in Manipur’s Noney district on Thursday, November 5, following a deadly gunfight between rival militant groups that left three people dead and two others injured. More than 500 personnel from Manipur Police and Central forces joined the operation to check the identities of residents and prevent further violence in the affected areas.
Officials said the joint operation began around 3.30 am in the Nungba and Kekru Naga areas. Personnel from the district police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), CoBRA and Assam Rifles took part in the search operation.
The security teams are conducting identity checks among residents as part of efforts to maintain law and order following Wednesday’s violent confrontation.
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Gunfight Breaks Out in Taodaijang Village
The exchange of fire took place around 4 am on Wednesday, November 4, at Taodaijang village in the Khoupum area of Noney district. Officials said the gunfight involved suspected members of rival Naga militant groups.
The confrontation reportedly continued for several hours, creating panic among residents of nearby villages. According to local reports, the prolonged exchange of fire forced several residents to leave their homes and move to safer locations.
The bodies of three men were later recovered by local residents from the site of the incident. Two other people were reportedly injured during the gunfight.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about armed clashes between militant factions in the region, where tensions between rival groups have periodically triggered violence.
Identities of the Deceased and Groups Involved
The Zeliangrong United Front (Jenchui), also known as ZUF (J), claimed that two of the deceased were members of its organisation. It identified them as M Thaimei and G Kamson.
The outfit alleged that the confrontation involved the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), or NSCN (IM), the ZUF (Kamson faction) and the NSCN-K (Niki Sumi) faction.
However, these allegations have not been independently verified by authorities.
The third deceased was identified as Aihung Khumba, a resident of Pungmon Chingchen village in Noney district. Officials had not immediately confirmed his organisational affiliation.
The identities and affiliations of those involved remain an important part of the investigation as security agencies work to establish the circumstances surrounding the clash.
Local Residents Appeal for Peace
The gunfight caused serious concern among people living in the surrounding villages. Following the incident, local residents, including women, went to the area in an effort to prevent further violence between the rival groups.
They also used a public address system to appeal to the armed cadres to stop firing and avoid further confrontation.
The intervention reflected growing concern among local communities about the impact of armed clashes on civilian life. Residents in the affected areas have faced uncertainty and fear as violence threatens their safety and daily activities.
Security Forces Intensify Monitoring
The deployment of more than 500 personnel highlights the seriousness of the situation in Noney district. Security forces are continuing their search and verification exercises across the affected areas to monitor developments and prevent another outbreak of violence.
The operation also aims to establish a stronger security presence in locations affected by the gunfight. Officials are keeping a close watch on the situation as tensions between the rival groups remain a concern.
The latest incident adds to the security challenges facing Manipur, where armed violence and tensions involving different groups have repeatedly disrupted normal life.
For now, security agencies are focusing on maintaining peace, verifying local identities and preventing further clashes. The situation in Noney remains under close observation as the search operation continues.