Photo Courtesy: ukhrultimes
Imphal: The Naga Women’s Union (NWU) has issued an urgent appeal to state and central authorities for the immediate rescue and safe return of six Naga civilians currently held in captivity. The hostages were among a group of eighteen individuals, including women and a child, abducted on May 13, 2026, near Leilon Vaiphei village in the Kangpokpi district of Manipur. While some captives have been accounted for, the whereabouts of the remaining six—identified as Dr. Rev. Manu, Pastor Kenpibou, Dilip Thiumai, Kaliwangbou, Phenrongwibou Thiumai, and Ch. Phenrilungbou—remain unknown.
The union has strongly condemned the abduction, expressing deep suspicion regarding the involvement of the Kuki National Front (KNF-P), a group currently under the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreement. Citing the proximity of the incident to major security establishments, including the 57 Mountain Division and various Assam Rifles and CRPF camps, the NWU has questioned the efficacy of security measures in the region. They argue that the failure to prevent such an act in an area with a dense military presence raises significant concerns regarding civilian safety and accountability.
In response to the crisis, the NWU has demanded the immediate abrogation of the SoO agreement with the militant group implicated in the abduction. The union is calling for a thorough investigation to identify and prosecute all militants, accomplices, and abettors involved in the hostage-taking. Emphasizing that Leilon Vaiphei and Leimakhong have become volatile zones since the conflict began in May 2023, the organization reiterated its demand for swift justice and the protection of innocent civilians from further acts of terror.
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