Photo Courtesy: nenow
Imphal: Fourteen Kuki civilians, including three students, were released on Tuesday following 27 days in captivity. The group was handed over in Senapati district after negotiations facilitated by local civil society organizations.
The individuals were transferred to the chief of Taphou Kuki village in a peaceful operation observed by the Senapati Police, Central Armed Police Forces, Assam Rifles, and district administration officials. According to organizers, all fourteen detainees were in good condition. The released individuals are Thangtinlen Chongloi, Paotinkai Chongloi, Lunsei Chongloi, Kaimang Chongloi, Hengunsei Chongloi, Luntinlal Chongloi, Tonggoulen Chongloi, Sehginlun Chongloi, Sehminhao Chongloi, Paogoulhang Chongloi, Haominlun Kipgen, Lamgoulen Kipgen, Thanglemang Chongloi, and Thangminlen Chongloi.
Former detainee Paotinkai Chongloi confirmed the group had been held by Naga village guards since May 13. He stated, "The group had spent 27 days in the custody of Naga village guards and had been treated well during the period." Chongloi added that the detainees received food, clothing, and blankets, and he characterized the release as an unconditional humanitarian gesture aimed at lowering tensions between the Kuki and Naga communities.
Despite this development, the status of six Naga civilians reportedly held by armed Kuki groups remains uncertain. Local leaders hope this release serves as a foundation for further dialogue and stability in the region.
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