Families Urge Release of Six Naga Men Held Captive in Manipur

Imphal: Families of six Naga men abducted in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district are calling on the government and local armed groups to secure their immediate release. The men were among 18 civilians seized near Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13 following a violent ambush at Kotlen. While the women and an infant held in the group have been released, the six men remain in captivity.

Released hostages described being intercepted by a large group of people in civilian clothing, followed by armed individuals in camouflage uniforms. Dingamliu Abonmai, one of the freed captives, identified the abductors as members of the KNF. She said the group was separated, with the men being taken away in different vehicles after everyone was blindfolded and led into forested areas.

The ordeal has caused profound distress for the families left behind. One family pointed to the plight of a month-old infant whose father is among the missing, noting the long-term impact on the child. Former captives reported being subjected to mental torture and expressed fear that revealing too many details could jeopardize the safety of those still held. Authorities are now under mounting pressure to intervene and ensure the safe return of the remaining hostages.