(Superseding)
Kohima Dec 5 (UNI) At least 10 civilians were reportedly killed by security forces who were suspected to be underground cadres of the NSCN(K) in Oting village under Longkhao area of Tizit Sub-division in Mon district of Nagaland around 4 PM on Saturday, it was reported on Sunday.
According to witnesses several people are still missing after the operation carried out by the security forces. They alleged that the security fired upon a pick-up truck which was carrying daily wage labourers of colliery who were returning home after their days work at a coal mine from Tiru area. The army was carrying out an operation in search of NSCN (K) cadres led by Yung Aung, a Myanmar based outfit in the area. The local organisations informed that army personnel were seen carrying the dead bodies till late in the night.
When contacted the Army sources said they are still collecting the information about the operation which was carried out against some underground armed cadres present in the area, however details were still awaited.
Meanwhile, Nagaland Chief Minitser Neiphu Rio said in a tweet "The unfortunate incident leading to the killing of civilians at Oting, Mon is highly condemnable. Condolences to the bereaved families & speedy recovery of those injured. High level SIT will investigate & justice delivered as per the law of the land. Appeal for peace from all sections".
Meanwhile, tension prevailed in the area and various organisations protested the killing of civilians by the army and attacked some of the security forces and set some of their vehicles on fire. Senior police officials have rushed to the area and investigations have been initiated, sources said.
UNI AS ACL