Kuki volunteers 'kidnap' 20 Nagas in fresh flareup
REGIONAL: Kuki volunteers have reportedly taken 20 people including a soldier captive on the Ukhrul–Imphal road within the jurisdiction of the Litan police station marking a renewed peak in ethnic tensions. Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has voiced his concerns regarding the situation and has appealed for the safe release of those captured.
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) claims the Kuki volunteers acted in retaliation for an "unprovoked firing incident" involving a Naga group, which had not only fired at them but also taken two hostages. Manipur Police characterized the incident as a "clash" between the Kukis and Nagas and assured prompt resolutions.
Negotiations for the hostages' release were ongoing as of Wednesday with civil society groups involved to help ensure the safe return of all parties.
In his official statement, Chief Minister Singh reiterated the seriousness of the incident and promised that the government would take all necessary actions to apprehend those responsible for this act of violence.
Image: Representational purpose only.