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This recruitment of young individuals aims to cultivate a hardened generation capable of sustaining the movement over an extended period, the sources said
Intelligence sources expressed concern, stating that this development poses a severe threat. (Representational image)
Amid the unrest in Manipur, reports indicate that Kuki groups are recruiting child soldiers for significant operations with an eye on the future.
The exact number of boys within these forces remains unknown, even to security forces. However, highly placed sources suggest that boys between the ages of 11 and 14 have been recruited and trained in combat and warfare.
This recruitment of young individuals aims to cultivate a hardened generation capable of sustaining the movement over an extended period, the sources said.
Sources identified one of the boys as Khaminlen, also known as Kiran Akhomin. He is a minor from Leimakhong and is allegedly a KNF (Kuki National Front) cadre. This boy reportedly participated in the attack on the Kanchup area on November 11.
Intelligence sources expressed concern, stating that this development poses a severe threat. They fear these young boys could be exploited as drug carriers in the future.
“Kuki [groups] know that children will serve shorter jail terms if apprehended, and a hardcore cadre is already prepared,” a top intelligence source revealed.
