Union Minister Amit Shah on Monday expressed regret over the killing of 14 civilians in Nagaland and said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the incident.

"The government of India expresses deep regret over the unfortunate incident in Nagaland and also expresses deep sympathies to the bereaved families, he said.

Also Read: 14 civilians killed during security operations in Nagaland; Army orders probe

A vehicle was signalled to stop but it tried to speed away and suspecting the presence of extremists in the vehicle, the security personnel opened fire, he said. Six out of eight occupants of the vehicle died as a result of the firing by security forces, Shah said, adding that later, it was found to be a case of mistaken identity.

He said local people on getting news of firing surrounded and attacked the troops and one soldier was killed in violence while several others were injured. Shah said that in self defence and to disperse the crowd, the troops had to open fire in which seven civilians were killed.

Also Read: What we know so far about the incident

He said that on Sunday evening, an agitated crowd targeted Assam Rifles company operating base and forces had to open fire in which one civilian was killed.

He said that the current situation is tense but under control. "Situation was monitored yesterday. MHA immediately sent Additional Secretary incharge of the northeast to Kohima where he today held a meeting with the Chief Secretary, other senior officials & senior officials of the paramilitary forces. The situation was reviewed in detail," he said.

The Nagaland Police have lodged a murder case against the 21st Para Special Force of the Army for its alleged involvement in firing on civilians, even as several tribal bodies called for shutdowns in protest against the action of security forces.

Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC have been clamped in Mon town.

Also Read: Chorus grows for repeal of AFSPA in Northeast

(Edited by : Aditi Gautam)

First Published:Dec 6, 2021 3:34 PM IST