Imphal, May 21: Families of six Naga men allegedly abducted by suspected Kuki militants in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on May 13 have appealed to authorities and armed groups for their immediate release, saying the continued uncertainty has intensified fear and emotional distress among relatives.
According to reports, the six men were among a larger group of 18 Naga civilians allegedly taken hostage from Leilon Vaiphei village following a deadly ambush in the Kotlen area of Kangpokpi district. Family members and released captives stated that the hostages included women, men and an infant. While women and a baby have reportedly been released, six men are still missing.
Speaking to the media after regaining freedom, some of the released individuals recounted their experience and called for stronger efforts to secure the return of those who remain in captivity.
One of the released hostages, Dingamliu Abonmai, alleged that the group was intercepted while trying to enter Leimakhong Konsa Khul near Leilon Vaiphei village. According to her account, armed individuals, including men and women, stopped them and allegedly forced them into vehicles.
She further claimed that a group of civilians initially surrounded them before another armed group in camouflage clothing arrived. Abonmai alleged that the armed individuals belonged to the Kuki National Front.
According to her allegations, male hostages were separated from the women and taken away in different vehicles. She also claimed that those in captivity were blindfolded, moved through forested areas and subjected to mental harassment during the period of detention.
Abonmai stated that the captives repeatedly appealed for their release and added that some of those freed were avoiding discussing the full details of the incident in the hope that it would not affect the safety of the men still being held.
Family members of the missing men said the prolonged uncertainty has caused severe anxiety and hardship. One family drew attention to the situation of a one-month-and-seven-day-old infant whose father remains among those missing, saying the child is now growing up without the father’s presence and support.
The families have urged both the state and central governments to intervene urgently and ensure the safe return of the six remaining men.
