Imphal: A heavy exchange of gunfire took place between the Indian Army and armed miscreants in villages along the border between Imphal East and Kangpokpi districts on Wednesday, reports said.
The encounter between the two groups took place around 11:45 am in the villages of Itham Moirangpurel and Laihong, under the jurisdiction of the Maphou Dam police station in Imphal East, adjoining Kangpokpi.
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Imphal East is predominantly inhabited by the Meitei community, while Kangpokpi is largely home to the Kukis.
These two communities have been in conflict for the past 18 months, resulting in the loss of over 232 lives.
The well-armed miscreants on Wednesday launched the first salvo, firing several rounds from the high Sarang hill range in Kangpokpi district toward the low-lying residential areas situated between the villages of Itham Moirangpurel and Laihong.
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The Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army stationed along the border between the two districts fired a few warning shots, signalling to intervene in the attacks.
Following persistent gun attacks from miscreants, the Gorkha Rifles sounded a siren as a warning, followed by heavy gunshots.
A heavy exchange of gunfire ensued with the Army also using a bomb against the attackers, the report said.
However, no casualties were reported on either side.
Though tension in and around these villages was high, the situation is under control, the report added.