13 Nagaland civilians killed in alleged armed force 'ambush'

New Delhi : Thirteen civilians were among the 14 people who were killed on Saturday evening in an armed forces' operation against extremists in Nagaland’s Mon district.

The Army's 3 Corps, headquartered on the outskirts of the State’s Dimapur town, has taken responsibility for the killing of the civilians and assured an “appropriate action” in the matter. The Nagaland Government has also ordered a high-level probe into the incident by a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

“Based on credible intelligence of likely movement of insurgents, a specific operation was planned to be conducted in the area of Tiru, Mon district, Nagaland. The incident and its aftermath are deeply regretted,” the statement said.

“The cause of the unfortunate loss of lives is being investigated at the highest level and appropriate action will be taken as per the course of law,” it said, adding that a few soldiers were severely injured and one soldier succumbed to his injuries.

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As per reports, a bunch of labourers were returning home to Oting village in a pick-up van from a coal mine in Tiru area 15 km away.

“The armed forces ambushed their vehicle and killed six on the spot. Seven locals died later. At least 11 others are battling injuries while two are missing,” a union member said.

This is a common routine for the labourers to come home every Saturday, stay with their families on Sunday and then return to work on Monday.

One soldier has also lost his life in the incident.