• Source:PTI
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Two people were killed and 10 others were injured in a suspected militant attack in Manipur’s Imphal West district on Sunday. The militants reportedly launched a gun-and-bomb assault from hilltop positions using drones, targeting the valley areas of Koutruk and Kadangband, police said.  

The attack claimed the lives of two civilians, including a 31-year-old woman, identified as Ngangbam Surbala Devi and injured her 11-year-old daughter, along with two police officers, reported Indian Express.

Manipur Police stated that the suspected Kuki militants used high-tech drones to deploy multiple RPGs. While drone bombs are commonly associated with general warfare, this marks a significant escalation as drones are now being used to target security forces and civilians, the state police department said.

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''The involvement of highly trained professionals, possibly with technical expertise and support, cannot be ruled out. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and the police are prepared to respond to any contingency that may arise,'' Manipur Police said. The police also urged the public to remain calm as combing operations continue in the region.

Koutruk, a Meitei village situated in Imphal West district near the border with the Kuki-Zomi majority Kangpokpi district, has been among the hardest-hit areas in the ongoing conflict between Kuki and Meitei ethnic groups, frequently experiencing incidents of gunfire.

The sudden violence caused widespread panic, forcing residents to flee their homes in search of safety. Security forces, comprising state and central units, were promptly deployed to stabilise the situation.

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The injured victims were at home when the attack occurred. The injured child and police officer are currently receiving treatment at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), while two others are recovering at Raj Medicity.  The deceased's body has been sent to RIMS for a post-mortem examination. Authorities are continuing efforts to secure the area and prevent further violence.