Hostage Crisis Averted: Release of Kuki and Naga Members in Manipur

Twenty-eight members of the Kuki and Naga communities were freed after being held hostage by armed groups in Manipur. The abductions followed violent incidents, including the death of church leaders. Manipur's government engaged in talks with civil groups for their release.

In a dramatic turn of events, 28 individuals from the Kuki and Naga communities have been released after being held hostage by armed groups in the districts of Kangpokpi and Senapati, Manipur, police confirmed on Friday.

Their abduction followed a series of violent attacks, including the murder of three church leaders and injury of four others in Kangpokpi on Wednesday. A civilian was also killed and his wife injured in Noney district.

A senior officer reported that twelve Naga women were freed in Makhan village. Late Thursday, 14 Kuki individuals were handed over to security forces. Two Salesian brothers were also released. Manipur’s Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam highlighted the government’s negotiations with civil and political groups to secure their release.