According to reports from officer-in-charge, Sugnu Police Station, armed miscreants engaged in a prolonged clash, prompting state forces to retaliate.

The intensity of the conflict reached a distressing level when a mortar shell exploded within the premises of Sugnu Higher Secondary School where units D/136 and B/167 of the Border Security Force (BSF) are stationed.

A civilian identified as Kshetrimayum Rakesh, 39, son of (Late) Ksh Juge from Kongpal Kshetri Leikai in Imphal East, sustained a bullet injury to the chest at Wapokpi, Sugnu. He was swiftly evacuated to Jeevan Hospital, Kakching, and later referred to Raj Medicity. Rakesh’s current condition is reported to be stable. It was further reported that intermittent gunfire continued.

Reports said that the intermittent exchange of fire which has been continuing between armed miscreants at Shantipur Pukhao hill range stopped at about 2 pm on Wednesday. However, fresh rounds of gunfire were reported at 5 am on Thursday.

In the aftermath of the armed clash, another individual identified as Ningombam Rakesh Singh (Angangtomba), 24, son of N Hemanta Singh, from Pukhao Khabam Mayai Leikai, sustained a bullet injury to his right leg. He was evacuated to Raj Medicity for medical attention.