An exchange of gunfire was reported in parts of Kangpokpi district of Manipur on Wednesday morning after the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) said its armed wing carried out an operation in the area.
In a press statement issued on January 8, the ZUF said its armed wing, the Zeliangrong Tiger Force (ZTF), was involved in a gun battle with what it described as Kuki underground outfits. According to the statement, the incident took place around 7.40 am at Kharam Vaiphei village under Sadar Hills in Kangpokpi district.
The group claimed that during the exchange of fire, at least two or three Kuki cadres may have been seriously injured. It also stated that members of the Zeliangrong Tiger Force later returned safely to their camp. There was no independent confirmation of injuries at the time of filing this report. 
Explaining the reasons behind the operation, the ZUF said it was driven by what it described as serious concerns over several issues. These included the submission of a topographical map in support of a demand for a Separate Administration, alleged illegal poppy cultivation, and activities along German Road and Tiger Road. The outfit also alleged the setting up of unauthorised camps under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) framework and other unlawful activities within what it called Zeliangrong Inpui traditional territory.
The ZUF, however, said it does not oppose what it termed the legitimate aspirations of the Kuki people within their recognised native land. At the same time, the group asserted that no Kuki land exists within Zeliangrong Inpui ancestral territory.
In a strong warning, the outfit said it remains committed to protecting its people, land and property. It added that any form of encroachment would not be tolerated. The statement urged those occupying the disputed areas unlawfully to leave immediately, warning that failure to do so could lead to further escalation.
