2 Naga outfits clashed over one's ties with security forces

The gunfight at Taodaijang village in Noney involved militants of Zeliangrong United Front-Jenchui (ZUF-J) and Zeliangrong United Front-Kamson (ZUF-K), the latter backed by NSCN-IM.

Two of the dead belonged to ZUF-J, a signatory to the cessation of operations (CoO) agreement with Centre since 2022, and the third to ZUF-K.The trigger for the clash was purportedly a statement from ZUF-K on Nov 1, accusing ZUF-J of betraying the Naga by hobnobbing with security forces.In Kangpokpi district, Committee on Tribal Unity, Sadar Hills, extended its shutdown by 48 hours, until 5 pm on Nov 6, after accusing the govt of failing to identify who abducted and killed two Kuki-Zo tribesmen last week.The fresh turmoil comes a day after chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh directed security agencies to identify "active" armed groups, excluding those engaged in peace talks with the state govt.