Manipur Violence: Security Forces Intensify Operations Amid Rising Naga-Kuki Tensions, Amnesty Demands Hostage Release
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Imphal
- Jun 07, 2026
- 188
Security forces have stepped up operations across sensitive areas of Manipur following the killing of three civilians in Kangpokpi district, as concerns grow over escalating tensions between Naga and Kuki communities amid an ongoing hostage crisis.
Authorities have initiated a special awareness campaign targeting village youths in vulnerable regions, urging them not to be influenced by reports of violence from other parts of the state. The initiative comes as officials seek to prevent further unrest and maintain peace in conflict-prone areas.
The intensified security measures follow a deadly gun attack at Loibol Khullen village in Kangpokpi district on Friday, where three civilians lost their lives. In response, police and security personnel launched extensive search operations and area-domination patrols across several locations.
According to Manipur Police, local village councils, community leaders and civil society organisations have been actively engaged to strengthen cooperation and maintain stability. Security officials assured residents that adequate forces would remain deployed to ensure public safety and deter any fresh incidents of violence.
To prevent the spread of unrest from recently affected areas, security forces carried out combing operations around Litan, Mahadev and Sinakeithel on Saturday. Additional patrols were conducted along key highway stretches in Ukhrul district, a Tangkhul Naga-majority region bordering Kuki-dominated Kangpokpi district.
Officials said rescue efforts are also underway to secure the release of civilians reportedly being held captive by armed groups. Joint security patrols were conducted in villages inhabited by both communities, while several illegal bunkers and fortified structures were identified and dismantled during the operation.
Authorities have appealed to village leaders and community organisations to counsel local youths against retaliation and discourage participation in any form of violence linked to incidents occurring elsewhere in the state.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International has expressed serious concern over the continued detention of civilians by armed groups in Manipur. The global human rights organisation warned that the hostage crisis reflects a worsening human rights situation amid the state's prolonged ethnic conflict.
In a recent statement, Amnesty International called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and urged armed groups to disclose information regarding individuals who remain missing.
“The armed groups responsible for these abductions must release all hostages without delay and reveal the whereabouts of those who are still unaccounted for,” the organisation stated.
Aakar Patel, Chair of Amnesty International India's Board, urged authorities to take immediate action to secure the safe release of all those being held captive.
He further stressed that the Manipur government must ensure the protection of affected civilians and conduct prompt, independent and impartial investigations into all reported cases of abduction and related human rights violations.
The latest developments highlight the continuing security challenges in Manipur, where ethnic tensions, violence and hostage-related incidents remain major concerns for authorities and local communities alike.
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