Guwahati: In Manipur, 31 out of 38 individuals from the Kuki and Naga communities, who were reportedly held captive by armed groups in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts, have been safely released, officials said on May 16. The operation was carried out through joint efforts of security forces, civil society groups and political representatives.
Authorities said the release followed recent violent incidents in Kangpokpi and Noney districts that had increased tensions in the state. Discussions between government officials, security agencies and civil society organisations are still ongoing to secure the release of others who are believed to be in captivity.
Police confirmed that those released included 12 Naga women from Konsakhul village, who were allegedly taken from Makhan village. In Senapati district, 14 people from the Kuki community-four men and 10 women were also released and later handed over to security personnel during the night.
Separately, two Salesian brothers from Don Bosco, including one from Nagaland were released from different locations. In another rescue operation on Thursday evening, security teams also recovered three more people, including an 18-year-old Kuki woman, in Senapati district.
The incident came after a series of attacks earlier this week in Kangpokpi district, where suspected militants targeted vehicles linked to the Thadou Baptist Association, killing three church leaders and injuring four others.In a separate incident in Noney district, one civilian was killed and his wife was injured after unidentified attackers fired on their vehicle.
Officials added that coordinated efforts by the administration, security forces, and community leaders are continuing to prevent further violence and restore normal conditions in the region.