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Manipur CM Announces NIA Probe Into Abduction of Six Naga Villagers Amid Rising Ethnic Tension

  • By Thetripurapost Desk, Imphal
  • May 24, 2026
  • 47

Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh announced that the abduction case involving six Naga villagers from Konsakhul village in Kangpokpi district will be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for investigation.

The decision was conveyed during a meeting between the chief minister and a six-member delegation of the United Naga Council (UNC) at the chief minister’s official residence in Imphal.

According to an official statement issued by the Manipur Chief Minister’s Secretariat, the UNC delegation urged the government to intensify efforts to locate the six villagers abducted by armed militants amid ongoing ethnic unrest in the region.

The chief minister informed the delegation that the state government has already initiated the process to transfer the case to the NIA. He further stated that the killing of three church leaders in Kangpokpi district on May 13 had also been handed over to the federal investigative agency.

Search and rescue operations have reportedly been underway since May 14 to trace the missing villagers. The chief minister appealed to all communities, including Kuki civil society groups, to cooperate in securing the safe release of the abducted persons.

He also urged the United Naga Council to assist in efforts to secure the release of 14 Kuki civilians who, according to the government, continue to remain in captivity following recent violence.

Violence Escalates in Kangpokpi and Noney

The latest developments come amid escalating tension between Naga and Kuki groups following twin ambushes in Kangpokpi and Noney district on May 13. The attacks left four people dead, including three church leaders and one Naga civilian.

Officials stated that 31 abducted individuals — comprising 14 Nagas, 16 Kukis, and one Meitei — have been released so far. However, six Nagas and 14 Kukis are still reportedly being held hostage.

The continuing violence has raised serious concerns over law and order and communal harmony in Manipur, where ethnic clashes have persisted for months.