Security – Six Abducted Naga Civilians Found Dead in Manipur Amid Rising Tensions
Security – The Manipur government has strongly condemned the killing of six members of the Naga community who were abducted last month and later found dead. State Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam described the incident as a grave crime and assured that all possible steps would be taken to identify and arrest those responsible.
Government Condemns the Killings
Speaking to journalists on Friday, Konthoujam called the abduction and murder of innocent civilians an act that violated basic human values. He said such violence was unacceptable and stressed that law enforcement agencies were working to ensure swift action against the perpetrators.
According to the minister, the state administration remains committed to conducting a thorough investigation. He added that those involved in the crime would face legal consequences once identified and apprehended.
Security Measures Strengthened Across the State
Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also addressed the situation, highlighting recent administrative and security-related changes aimed at improving law and order in Manipur. He stated that a new Director General had taken charge and that certain responsibilities within the police structure had been reassigned to strengthen operational effectiveness.
Singh further noted that additional security support had been provided by the Central Government. Personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (COBRA) have been deployed in affected areas to assist local authorities in dealing with security challenges.
He expressed confidence that these measures would help improve the overall situation and enhance the state’s ability to respond to militant activities.
Bodies Recovered After Weeks of Search
The six victims, all belonging to the Naga community, were reportedly abducted on May 13 from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district. Authorities recovered their remains earlier this week following ongoing search and investigation efforts.
The bodies were transported under heavy security to the mortuary of the Jawaharlal Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) in Imphal during the early hours of Thursday. Officials maintained strict security arrangements during the transfer to prevent any disruption and to ensure public order.
Community Expresses Shock and Grief
Members of the Naga community reacted with deep sorrow after learning about the recovery of the bodies. Timothy Wizunamei, president of the Liangmai Naga Council, said the community had hoped for the safe return of the missing individuals and was devastated by the outcome.
He stated that relatives and community representatives were still in the process of confirming the identities of the deceased. According to him, formal identification procedures were necessary before families could receive official confirmation regarding their missing loved ones.
Wizunamei described the moment as heartbreaking for the affected families and noted that the entire community was mourning the loss.
Protests Erupt Outside Hospital
Following the arrival of the bodies at JNIMS, protests broke out near the hospital premises. Demonstrators gathered to express anger and grief over the killings and demanded justice for the victims.
Police personnel were deployed to manage the situation as crowds continued to assemble. Authorities later used tear gas to disperse protesters after tensions escalated outside the medical facility.
The incident has once again highlighted the fragile security environment in parts of Manipur, where authorities continue to focus on maintaining peace while investigating serious acts of violence. Officials have reiterated that efforts are underway to bring those responsible for the killings before the law.