4 militants killed in gunfight with gov't forces in India's northeast

NEW DELHI, Oct. 11 (Xinhua) -- Four militants were killed in a fierce gunfight with government forces in the northeastern state of Manipur, officials said Monday.

The gunfight broke out in Kangpokpi district, about 50 km north of Imphal, the capital city of Manipur.

"The operation in the area was launched on Saturday and the gunfight broke out on Sunday, following which four insurgents neutralised," an army official said.

Reports said other militants managed to escape during the stand-off.

According to officials, government forces have not suffered any damage in the gunfight.

The slain militants were affiliated with Kuki National Liberation Army (KLNA), local media reports said.

Manipur is a conflict-ridden state in India's northeast. Several separatist groups in the state have run long-armed insurgency demanding separation from the Indian union. The groups often target Indian armed forces.