Edited by Kimbawinu Vaiphei, Kukiland Express Desk
Songpi: May 13, 2026
Three church leaders were reportedly killed and at least four others injured after a convoy belonging to the TBA was ambushed in Kangpokpi district on Tuesday. According to initial reports, the attack was carried out by the ZUF-Kamson faction and VBIGs between Kotzim and Kotlen villages. The victims were returning from a religious conference when the convoy of two vehicles came under fire.
Sources identified the deceased as Rev. V. Sitlhou, a senior TBA leader and former General Secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention, along with Pastor Kaigoulun and Pastor Paogoulen. Rev. Sitlhou was among the most senior figures in the Baptist community in Manipur. The ambush marks one of the deadliest attacks on religious leaders since ethnic violence erupted in the state in May 2023, raising fresh concerns over the safety of civilians and faith leaders.
At least four others were reportedly injured in the incident. The injured have been identified as Rev. SM Haopu, Rev. Hekai Simte, Rev. Paothang, and two drivers, Lelen and Goumang. Sources said the group was traveling in two vehicles and sustained injuries during the firing. The wounded were taken to nearby medical facilities, though details of their condition were not immediately available at the time of reporting.
The church leaders were returning to Kangpokpi from Churachandpur after attending the United Baptist Convention (UBC) Conference in Chiengkonpang, Lamka. The annual gathering draws delegates from Baptist churches across the region. The convoy was ambushed midway between the two hill districts, an area that has seen heightened activity by armed groups amid ongoing tensions.
No group has publicly claimed responsibility for the ambush so far. Security forces are yet to issue an official statement on the incident. The attack occurred along a key transit route connecting Kangpokpi and Churachandpur, where buffer zones have been established to separate communities following the outbreak of conflict. The targeting of church leaders is likely to draw condemnation from religious bodies and civil society organizations.
The killing of Rev. Sitlhou and two pastors has sent shockwaves through Baptist congregations in Manipur and beyond. Church leaders and community members have called for urgent action to ensure the safety of civilians and religious personnel. Further details on the ambush and the condition of the injured are awaited as authorities investigate the incident.
Disclaimer: This report is based on preliminary local accounts and information available at the time of publication. Allegations regarding those responsible for the ambush have not yet been officially confirmed by security agencies.
