Imphal: Security operations intensified across Manipur over the weekend, with three people reportedly killed in a gunfight between suspected Kuki militants and Naga Village Guards in Noney district, while three alleged militants were arrested in separate operations in Imphal.

The fatalities were reported following a nearly five-hour exchange of fire near Taijeikaiphun Naga village under Nungba jurisdiction. According to local sources, the confrontation began in the morning and continued until the early afternoon, following two days of alleged attacks on the village.

The Naga Village Guards reportedly gained control of the position after the gunfight and recovered three AK-series rifles along with ammunition allegedly left behind by the attackers.

The identities of those killed were yet to be officially confirmed. No casualties were reported among the village guards.

Meanwhile, in a separate operation, a joint team comprising Imphal East Police Commandos and the 31 Assam Rifles arrested two suspected cadres of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP-Nongdrenkhomba) faction following a 36-hour operation.

The arrested individuals were identified as 28-year-olds Phanjoubam Thoiba Mangang and Longjam Indrasen Singh. According to officials, both were allegedly involved in the kidnapping of a woman from Top Awang Leikai in September.

Security personnel recovered a .32-calibre pistol, four live rounds of ammunition and a vehicle during the operation.

In another coordinated action, the joint security team apprehended an active cadre of the KCP (MFL) faction, identified as Jamson Huidrom, from the Polo Ground area of Imphal West.

The operations form part of intensified security measures across the state amid continuing concerns over armed violence and militant activities.