Imphal, May 16: Thirty-eight people from the Kuki and Naga communities who were allegedly held hostage by armed groups in Manipur’s Kangpokpi and Senapati districts have been released following coordinated efforts involving security agencies, civil society groups and political leaders, officials said on May 16.
The development comes in the wake of recent violent incidents in Kangpokpi and Noney districts that triggered renewed tension in the conflict-affected state.
Officials said discussions involving civil society organisations, representatives of the Manipur government and security agencies are still underway to facilitate the safe release of others who are believed to remain in captivity.
According to police, the released individuals included 12 Naga women from Konsakhul village who had allegedly been abducted at Makhan village. Authorities also confirmed the release of 14 members of the Kuki community — four men and ten women — who were reportedly held captive in Senapati district before being handed over to security personnel on Thursday night.
In a separate development, two members of the Don Bosco, including one from Nagaland, were also freed from different locations by armed groups, officials said.
Authorities further stated that three additional individuals, including an 18-year-old woman from the Kuki community, were rescued in Senapati district on Thursday evening and later handed over to police teams.
The hostage situation emerged following a series of violent attacks earlier this week. Three church leaders lost their lives and four others were injured after suspected militants allegedly ambushed two vehicles carrying members of the Thadou Baptist Association in Kangpokpi district. In another incident in Noney district, unidentified gunmen reportedly opened fire on a vehicle, killing a civilian and injuring his wife.
Officials said the administration, security forces, political representatives and civil society organisations continue to work together to prevent further escalation and restore normalcy in the region.
