Manipur Chief Minister Pledges Full Arrests in Naga Killings; Two Suspects Already Held
Manipur Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh on Saturday said his government is taking all steps to ensure that all those involved in the killing of six Naga people in Kangpokpi district are arrested.
His comments came a day after a team of security officials led by the National Investigation Agency arrested two persons for their alleged involvement in the killings.
Interacting with reporters on the sidelines of an event in Imphal West district, the Chief Minister said he had visited Makhan village in Kangpokpi district along with legislators from two communities to meet the bereaved families. The families identified five individuals allegedly involved in the incident, he said.
Based on their information, two suspects have been apprehended, he added. Necessary instructions have been issued to law enforcement agencies to ensure the arrest of the rest of the accused, Mr. Singh said.
The bodies of six Naga civilians were recovered from near Leilon Vaiphei village on June 10, triggering protests by Naga and Meitei communities demanding that the perpetrators be brought to justice.
The recovery occurred a day after 14 Kuki individuals, who had been abducted by armed groups in Manipur's Senapati district nearly a month earlier, were released.
These 14 Kuki people and the six Nagas were among others abducted following the killing of three church leaders in Kangpokpi district on May 13.
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister launched a tree plantation programme at the SEEDS Complex, Olympian Park in Imphal West District. The initiative aims to promote environmental conservation through the plantation of Uningthou, the State tree of Manipur, an official release said.
About the possibility of reopening Olympian Park, the Chief Minister said that while people are still hesitant about visiting places perceived as risky, the situation is gradually improving. He expressed hope that the park would be reopened to the public soon.
