Major Hosea (Huseya) Assumi of the NSCN-IM’s Sumi Region, Naga Army GHQ, was killed in a landmine blast in Kamjong District, Manipur on 24 July, 2024, while in the line of duty. The landmine was allegedly planted by the Kuki National Army (B), and two others were injured in the explosion.
A condolence service was held by the GPRN Wung Tangkhul Region (WTR) for Major Assumi at WTR Hall. The service included short speeches from the presidents of various Tangkhul civil society organizations, such as the Tangkhul Naga Hoho, Students’ Union, Women’s Union, Chiefs Union, and Youth Council.
Assumi hails from Toshezu village under Chumoukedima District, Nagaland. Following his demise, Assumi has been awarded the rank of Lieut. Colonel (Posthumous).
This incident raises the death toll of NSCN-IM cadres to five since the recent wave of violence involving the NSCN-IM and KNA (B) began.
Earlier this year, the NSCN-IM accused the Kuki National Army (Burma) of killing Honpam Chithung on February 10 in Myanmar. In May 2024, Sentilong Jamir of Mokokchung, Nagaland, was reportedly captured and tortured to death by KNA (B) forces at the Indo-Myanmar border. Additionally, Captain RS Winson was killed in action on June 15.
The latest incident follows a statement from Lieut. Gen (Retd.) HS Ramsan, VC, Steering Committee Executive Member of the NSCN-IM, who urged the Nagas to recognize that Indian security forces are exploiting the ongoing conflict in Myanmar by waging a proxy war against the Nagas, using the Kuki National Army (KNA-B) and other ethnic armed groups in Myanmar under the guise of pro-democracy forces.
Ramsan noted that Indian security forces are focusing resources on capturing the strategically important locations of Homalin and Khamti. Ramsan stated, “Once these locations are captured, it would only be a matter of days to capture our base here in eastern Nagalim,” indicating that such a move would imply a significant setback for the Naga movement.
The ongoing conflict between the NSCN-IM and KNA-B has led to increased tensions and casualties in the region, impacting the groups’ cadres as well as local communities.