A personnel of the Border Security Force (BSF) died after being hit by a stray bullet during an exchange of fire between suspected Kuki-Zo and Tangkhul Naga village volunteers in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Friday, officials said.
The incident occurred around 4:45 pm at Mongkot Chepu village under Litan police station. According to reports, firing broke out between suspected Kuki-Zo volunteers from Mongkot Chepu and Tangkhul Naga volunteers from Shikibung village.
The deceased has been identified as Constable Mithun Mandal of the BSF’s 170 Battalion, who was deployed in the area for road opening patrol duty. He sustained a bullet injury to his left shoulder during the exchange of fire.
Mandal was immediately evacuated to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Hospital authorities stated that the bullet had damaged a vital organ.
Police have registered a case in connection with the incident and launched an investigation. Security forces have been put on high alert in the area, and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those involved in the firing. The body was kept at the RIMS mortuary for post-mortem examination.
Reacting to the incident, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh strongly condemned the killing, describing it as an “unfortunate and tragic incident.” He stated that Constable Mithun Mandal was martyred while on patrol duty after being struck by a bullet fired from an unknown direction.
In a statement, the Chief Minister said that despite the best efforts of medical personnel, the jawan succumbed to his injuries at around 6:00 pm at RIMS, Imphal. Hailing from Bhagjan Tola village in West Bengal, Mandal was remembered for serving the nation with courage, dedication, and a deep sense of duty.
He further stated that the constable’s sacrifice would be remembered with the highest honour and extended his condolences to the bereaved family. The Chief Minister assured that the State Government stands in solidarity with the family and remains committed to ensuring peace, security, and justice.
