At least 11 civilians have been killed by security forces in Nagaland’s Mon district, according to reports, police said on Sunday, adding that it was probing whether the incident was a case of mistaken identity.
A police official said the exact death toll was yet to be ascertained as 11 people died on the spot and several others succumbed to their injuries in hospitals in the neighboring state of Assam.
Officials said the army has ordered a court of inquiry into the killing of civilians during an anti-insurgency operation in Nagaland’s Mon district.
The unfortunate incident leading to the killing of civilians in Oting, Mon is highly condemnable. Condolences… https://t.co/RyJ4bIvZeb
— Neiphiu Rio (@Neiphiu_Rio) 1638673516000
Security forces are yet to make a statement, but sources say they may have opened fire on the villagers, mistaking them as rebels. Meanwhile, the Assam Rifles has denied its involvement in the incident.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio An SIT has been formed to probe the unprecedented incident. “Unfortunate incident for killing civilians in Oting, Mon. Extremely condemnable. Condolences to the bereaved families and speedy recovery of the injured. High level SIT will investigate and deliver justice as per the law of the land. Appeal to all sections of the society for peace.” ,” Rio tweeted.
Sources said that the incident came to light late on Saturday night when the unlucky villagers did not return home on their scheduled time. On finding the dead body in the pickup van, the villagers immediately went out in search of their members.
The incident happened when the state is celebrating its biggest festival, the Hornbill Festival. On Sunday, the fourth day of the celebration, Australia’s Deputy Consul General Daniel Sim attended the event.
Home Minister Amit Shah termed it as an unfortunate incident and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
Distressed by an unfortunate incident in Oating, Mon, Nagaland. I extend my deepest condolences to their families… https://t.co/HM5EXrQdIZ
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) 1638677293000
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