Imphal: At least five houses belonging to Meitei families were destroyed in a fire following an alleged attack by suspected Kuki militants at Kanto Sabal near Leimakhong in Manipur on Friday, according to local residents.

The affected families have been identified as L. Sanathoi (21), L. Rajesh (36), L. Rahul (31), L. Nungshitombi, T. Leiri (80), and Kangjam Guni (75). The full extent of the damage is yet to be officially assessed.

Following the incident, local residents staged a protest, alleging that central security forces deployed in the area failed to prevent the attack despite being stationed nearby. Protesters demanded accountability and questioned the effectiveness of the security arrangements.

As the protest intensified, central security personnel reportedly fired tear gas shells to disperse the demonstrators. The action triggered further anger among sections of the protesters, who criticised the response of the security forces.

No official statement has yet been issued confirming the circumstances surrounding the fire or the allegations regarding those responsible. Authorities said the exact cause of the incident and the identities of those involved are under investigation.

Security has since been strengthened in and around Kanto Sabal, while officials continue to assess the damage and investigate the incident. Further details are awaited.