Mob sets ablaze NSCN(IM)-linked office in Manipur’s Ukhrul after factional killings

An office allegedly linked to the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) was set on fire by a mob in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Sunday, following heightened tensions triggered by the killing of four insurgent cadres a day earlier, officials said.

The arson occurred amid public outrage over the deaths of four members of the NSCN Eastern Flank, who were shot dead in Kamjong district on Saturday night. According to officials, the attack took place in Hongbei village when unidentified gunmen, suspected to be from a rival faction, intercepted a vehicle carrying six cadres and opened fire. Four died on the spot, while two others managed to escape.

News of the killings spread rapidly across the neighbouring Ukhrul district, leading to protests and rising anger among local residents. A group of people gathered at a structure believed to be associated with NSCN(IM), alleging its involvement in the attack and demanding immediate action against those responsible.

The situation escalated when the protest turned violent, and the mob set the building ablaze. No casualties were reported as the premises were unoccupied at the time of the incident.

In a statement, NSCN(IM) denied any role in the killings, asserting that no directive had been issued from its leadership to carry out attacks against any group or faction. The organisation said it has initiated an internal inquiry to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.

Security forces conducted a spot inspection in Kamjong district and recovered the bodies of the deceased. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, which remains tense amid concerns over escalating factional rivalry in the region.