At least four people, including a 60-year-old woman, were shot dead by unidentified gunmen near Mongjang village, about 7 km from Churachandpur town, around 1 pm on Monday, police said.

The victims were travelling in a car when they were ambushed and shot at point-blank range. Over 12 empty cartridges were recovered from the scene, officials added.

Among the deceased is Thahpi Haokip, a commander of the Kuki National Army (KNA), two of his associates, and a woman reportedly caught in the crossfire.

The United Kuki National Army (UKNA), which is not a signatory to the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with the Indian government, has reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack. The KNA is currently under the SoO arrangement.

Police and additional security forces have been deployed in the area following the ambush.