IMPHAL: Armed assailants from the hills launched fresh gun and bomb attacks in two villages in Imphal East district, Manipur, on Friday, sparking panic among local residents, according to police reports.
There have been no reports of injuries following the attacks in Sanasabi and Thamnapokpi villages, a senior officer confirmed.
Security forces quickly responded, leading to a fierce exchange of fire between the armed assailants and security personnel in both villages, the officer added.
The attack in Sanasabi village began around 10:45 am, when armed men opened fire indiscriminately and threw bombs in the area.
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This prompted security forces to retaliate, and chaos ensued as locals fled in all directions to escape the gunfire.
Shortly after, around 11:30 am, similar attacks were launched in Thamnapokpi village, further alarming residents.
In response, security forces, including personnel from the CRPF, were able to rescue several women, children, and elderly individuals caught in the crossfire.
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The attacks come amidst ongoing ethnic violence in the region, with more than 250 people killed and thousands displaced since May of the previous year, when clashes erupted between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
