Kangpokpi: At least three prominent Kuki church leaders were killed, and four others were critically injured following an armed ambush in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Wednesday morning.

The group comprised leaders from the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA) and the United Baptist Council (UBC), headed by TBA president Rev V Sitlhou. Others in the group included Rev SM Haopu, Rev Hekai Simte, Rev Kaigoulun, Rev Paothang, Pastor Paogou, and driver Goumang.

The Kuki Organisation for Human Rights Trust (KOHUR) has strongly condemned the "premeditated" attack, which took place as the clergy were reportedly spearheading reconciliation efforts between the Kuki and Tangkhul Naga communities. Activists have alleged the involvement of NSCN-IM cadres acting in coordination with the ZUF.(With inputs from Agencies)