Civilian Killed in Longkao Shooting: ZSUM Seeks Accountability, Appeals for Restraint

IMPHAL: The Zeliangrong Students’ Union Manipur (ZSUM) has strongly condemned the fatal shooting of a civilian at Longkao Village in Tamenglong district on the night of October 22, 2026, in which Lungkhao Kamei, 45, was killed and Pouchunlung Gonmei, 30, sustained injuries.

According to a press statement issued by ZSUM on October 24, the two civilians were reportedly returning home after hunting near the village when they were shot by armed men. The union stated that the assailants allegedly mistook the civilians for cadres of their rival organisation, the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF).

Describing the incident as unacceptable, ZSUM said that internal rivalries and factional interests must never be used to justify violence against innocent civilians. It warned that such incidents could deepen divisions, undermine collective interests and weaken unity within the Zeliangrong community.

The union called on those responsible for the shooting to acknowledge their actions, offer an unconditional apology to the bereaved family and the Zeliangrong community, and surrender to the appropriate authorities to facilitate a fair and impartial investigation.

ZSUM further urged Zeliangrong-Naga insurgent groups to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from retaliatory violence and resolve their differences through dialogue and peaceful means. It emphasised that no factional or personal interest should take precedence over human life and the collective well-being of the people.

Stressing the urgent need for unity and responsible leadership, the union appealed to all concerned to prioritise the protection of human life, accountability and peace. It called on the community to prevent further bloodshed and work towards safeguarding the dignity, security and future of the Zeliangrong people.

ZSUM expressed hope that the tragic incident would serve as a wake-up call to end internal hostilities and reaffirm a shared commitment to peace, mutual respect and collective responsibility.

Source: Press statement issued by the Zeliangrong Students’ Union Manipur (ZSUM), October 24, 2026.