Reported by: Bit Irom
Imphal: The Zeliangrong United Committee (ZUC), the apex body representing the Zeliangrong tribes in Manipur, has warned of serious consequences if the six abducted Naga civilians from Konsakhul village are harmed.
ZUC president Maibon Phaomei alleged that Kuki leaders had failed to respond to a proposed hostage exchange aimed at securing the release of the captives. The missing individuals have been identified as Rev. Dr. Manu Thiumai, Phenrongwi Thiumai, Phenrilung Chawang, Kaliwangbou Abonmai, Pastor Kenpibou and Dilip Thiumai.
The six men were among nearly 20 Naga civilians abducted on May 13 from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district following a violent ambush. Although negotiations later led to the release of 14 individuals from each side, the six Naga men remain missing. Reports also indicate that 14 Kuki villagers are currently being held in Senapati district.
Families of the detained Kuki villagers have appealed for the immediate and safe return of their relatives, saying their plea comes not from “politics or conflict,” but from the pain and fear of parents, spouses and children awaiting their loved ones.
Meanwhile, the United Naga Council (UNC) has intensified its demands for the safe release of the abducted Nagas and has reportedly set deadlines in connection with the matter.
The tensions follow a series of violent incidents on May 13, when three church leaders and a Naga civilian were killed in separate attacks in Noney and Kangpokpi districts.
In the aftermath, armed groups abducted several civilians from both communities. Since then, security forces and civil society organisations have been working to secure the release of those held captive.