In an unfortunate incident, an accidental explosion of gunpowder at a tribal Morung at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama at the ongoing Hornbill Festival on December 9 has left four persons injured, with one of them in a critical condition, authorities said.

The incident is believed to have occurred during the manual roasting of local gunpowder. The injured persons, all Naga tribesmen, were said to have been rushed to the hospital for medical treatment.

It is yet to be ascertained as to what led to the explosion, however, authorities informed that the incident is being investigated.

The Morung, a traditional institution in Naga villages, serves as a center for social, cultural, and learning activities. All the recognised tribes of Nagaland have their respective tribal Morung set up at the Kisama Naga Heritage Village to showcase their culture and traditions to visitors and tourists.

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Meanwhile, Sangtam Union Kohima has informed the four injured individuals were Konyak men who had been outsourced by the Union to handle the muzzle-loading gun.

The Union confirmed that the injuries sustained by the four men were minor, and fortunately, no tourists were harmed in the incident.

Further details are awaited.