Lenminsang Haokip of Kolchung reportedly died during combing operation by COBRA (CRPF) near Songkong village on June 16; no official comment from security agencies yet
By: Kimbawinu Vaiphei, Kukiland Express
Songpi, June 17, 2026: A man identified as Lenminsang Haokip, a resident of Kolchung village, was reportedly killed during an alleged operation that local sources say was conducted by COBRA (CRPF) near Songkong village under Henglep Sub-Division in Churachandpur district on June 16. According to those sources, the incident occurred while Kuki village volunteers were said to be on guard duty in the area. The circumstances surrounding the death remain unclear, and details have not been independently verified.
Local sources alleged that COBRA (CRPF) personnel opened fire and used explosive devices during the operation, which they said targeted village volunteers stationed in the vicinity. They claimed that Lenminsang was killed in the incident. The sources further alleged that the body of the deceased was taken away by security forces following the operation. No visual or documentary evidence was immediately available to corroborate these claims.
Reports from the area stated that central security forces, including COBRA (CRPF) units according to residents, have been carrying out extensive combing operations across Henglep Sub-Division since June 15. These operations reportedly involved the use of drones and explosive devices in several locations. The scale and intensity of the operations have caused concern among villagers, with many saying movement in the sub-division has been restricted over the past two days.
Lenminsang Haokip, a Kuki village volunteer from Kolchung, allegedly killed by COBRA (CRPF) near Songkong village on June 16. Circumstances have not been independently verified.
No official statement from COBRA (CRPF), CRPF, or other security agencies was available at the time of filing this report. Attempts to contact district police and paramilitary officials for comment were unsuccessful. The lack of an official version has left gaps in the public understanding of the events of June 16, and key details, including which units were involved, the objective of the operation, and the sequence of events, remain unconfirmed.
The allegations come amid ongoing tensions in Churachandpur district. Civil society groups have called for an impartial inquiry into the incident, citing the need for transparency and accountability in conflict areas. Authorities are yet to comment on the allegations made by local sources, and the incident could not be independently verified at the time of filing.
