Gunfight between rival Naga groups in Manipur leaves one dead, five injured
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At least one person was killed and five others injured after a gunfight broke out between two rival Naga armed groups in Manipur's Noney district, sources said.
The exchange of fire took place in a remote forested area near Khumji between the JUF-Jenchui (ZUF-J) and JUF-Kamson (ZUF-K) factions of the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF).
Security forces had not reached the site as of the latest reports because of the difficult terrain. Security agencies have also not yet issued an official account of the incident.
Sources said the situation remained fluid and the death toll could change after security personnel reach the area and assess the situation. The confrontation occurred away from populated areas.
The incident comes against the backdrop of longstanding tensions and armed rivalry among Naga groups over influence and control in Zeliangrong-inhabited areas.
The ZUF was formed in 2011 following a split involving former cadres of the NSCN-IM. It subsequently developed a separate political position centred on the interests of the Zeliangrong community.
Factional tensions and rivalry between the ZUF and NSCN-IM, as well as divisions within the ZUF, have periodically resulted in armed confrontations in the Khoupum Valley and other Zeliangrong-inhabited areas of western Manipur, including Noney and neighbouring districts.
The ZUF has advocated protection of Zeliangrong people, land and natural resources and has sought the integration of Zeliangrong-inhabited areas under a single administrative arrangement.