Imphal: Four United Kuki National Army (UKNA) militants were killed in an encounter between the army and militants early Monday in Khanpi village, about 80 kilometers west of Churachandpur district in Manipur. An official said the army received information about the presence of some UKNA militants in the area, following which the operation was launched around Khanpi village at 5:30 a.m. According to defense sources, the operation was carried out based on intelligence. During the operation, the militants opened unprovoked fire on the army convoy, prompting security forces to retaliate. It should be noted that the UKNA is not yet a party to the agreement between the central government, the state government, and Kuki-Zomi organizations to cease operations. The UKNA is a non-SOO (Suspension of Operation) militant organization. The group has carried out several violent incidents in recent days, including the murder of a village headman, intimidation of local residents, and attempts to disrupt peace in the area. This action by the Army followed this. The Army and Assam Rifles said in a statement that this operation reflects their commitment to ensuring peace and stability in the region and the safety of civilians. Search operations are currently underway in the surrounding areas.
