Manipur CM vows justice after Naga hostages found dead

Manipur Government Will Not Remain Mute Spectator to Atrocities: CM Khemchand on Killing of Naga Hostages

Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh has vowed that his government will not tolerate violence and will ensure justice for the victims of recent atrocities in the state. His remarks came on Thursday, June 11, 2026, following the discovery of the mortal remains of six individuals believed to be Naga men abducted by armed groups in Kangpokpi district. These men were reportedly taken hostage from Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13.

In an official statement, the Chief Minister condemned the killings, describing them as heinous acts. He assured that those responsible would be arrested and punished according to the law. The recovery of the bodies occurred after a month-long ordeal, during which 14 Kuki individuals abducted in Senapati district were released on June 9.

The police revealed that the remains were recovered after a 24-hour search operation involving 450 personnel from the Manipur Police, CRPF, and Assam Rifles, supported by sniffer dogs and forensic teams. The deceased are believed to be among those abducted in Kangpokpi district following the killing of three church leaders on May 13.

Expressing grief over the brutal murders, CM Singh extended his condolences to the bereaved families. He emphasized that violence has no place in society and reiterated the government’s commitment to peace, security, and the rule of law in Manipur. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is probing the case, and its team visited the mortuary at Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) in Imphal after the bodies were brought there early Thursday morning.

Meanwhile, tensions escalated in the state. Protesters allegedly vandalized the Naga Peoples' Front Manipur unit office at Liangmai Taphou in Senapati district late Wednesday night. Furniture and other office property were reportedly set on fire, and two trucks were torched near a school in the Karong area.

In response to the killings, the United Naga Council, the apex body of Nagas in Manipur, imposed a 24-hour shutdown in parts of the state starting at 6 a.m. on Thursday. The situation remains tense as authorities continue their investigation and efforts to restore peace.