NIA takes over probe into murder of six Naga citizens in Manipur
Imphal, June 11: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the investigation into the murder of six Naga citizens who were found dead after going missing in Manipur. The agency has launched a comprehensive forensic investigation to get to the bottom of the case and confirm the identities of the deceased.
The deceased have been identified as Pastor Kenpibou Chawang, Manu Thiumai, Phenrongvibo Thiumai, Dilip Thiumai, Kaliwangbou Abonmai, and Cha Phenrilung. All the deceased were residents of Konsakhul Naga village. According to information, these six people were abducted from the Lelon Vaiphei area on May 13.
After nearly a month-long search operation, and a joint search operation lasting 24 hours, a team of approximately 450 personnel from the Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) recovered their bodies near Kharam Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district.
According to officials, the bodies were found in a highly decomposed state, making them impossible to identify. A special NIA team then arrived at the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) mortuary in Imphal East. The agency is currently working to confirm the identities of the deceased through DNA testing and a detailed post-mortem examination, and to gather evidence.
Meanwhile, tensions erupted in Imphal after the bodies were brought to JNIMS. A large number of family members, community members, and local citizens gathered outside the hospital premises. Amid the outpouring of grief and anger, clashes broke out between protesters and security forces.
Security forces used tear gas to control the situation. Several civilians and security personnel were reportedly injured in the incident.
This incident comes a day after Naga groups released 14 Kuki hostages. This has raised fears of renewed violence and retaliation between different communities in the hilly areas of Manipur. In light of the situation, security has been tightened in Imphal East and surrounding sensitive districts.
