The victims were identified as Rev. V. Sitlhou, former general secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention and current president of the Thadou Baptist Association, Rev. Kaigoulun, and Pastor Paogoulen. According to reports, the convoy was travelling in clearly marked church vehicles when armed militants opened fire.
Four others sustained critical injuries in the attack, including Rev. S.M. Haopu and Rev. Hekai Simte. The injured were rushed for medical treatment as security concerns escalated across the region following the incident.
Kuki organisations accused a Naga militant faction and valley-based insurgent groups of carrying out the ambush. However, the Zeliangrong United Front denied any involvement in the killings. The attack immediately triggered widespread outrage, leading to shutdowns and road blockades in several areas.
Political condemnation followed swiftly from neighbouring states. The chief ministers of Nagaland and Meghalaya strongly denounced the killings and expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in Manipur, where ethnic violence has continued since May 2023.
The latest attack has deepened fears of renewed instability in the region, with religious leaders and civilians increasingly becoming targets amid the prolonged ethnic conflict. The killings of senior church figures have further intensified demands for stronger security measures and accountability as tensions continue to grip Manipur.
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