forces-intensify-hostage-rescue-operations-in-manipur

Security forces on Monday launched combing and search operations across parts of Manipur’s Kangpokpi district to rescue civilians still being held hostage by armed groups and arrest those responsible, police said.

A senior police officer said area domination exercises and coordinated operations were being conducted in different parts of the hill district as efforts continued to trace all missing persons linked to the recent violence.

The operations come days after 31 of around 38 people belonging to the Kuki and Naga communities were rescued or released on May 14 and 15 from Kangpokpi and Senapati districts.

The hostages were allegedly taken to undisclosed locations after suspected militants shot dead three church leaders and injured four others in Kangpokpi on May 13. In a separate incident in Noney district, a civilian was killed and his wife injured in another suspected militant attack.

Also read: Over 38 held hostage by different groups across state: Manipur HM

“In continuation of the operations to rescue the missing persons, combing and search operations were carried out by security forces in the hill ranges to the north west of Leilon Vaiphei and Kharam Vaiphei villages in Kangpokpi district,” a police statement said.

Among those rescued were 12 Naga women from Konsakhul village in Kangpokpi district and 14 members of the Kuki community, including four men and ten women, from Senapati district.

Police said the releases were made possible through “concerted efforts” involving the administration, security forces, political leaders and civil society groups.

Meanwhile, the United Naga Council (UNC) has launched inter-district blockades on National Highways 2 and 37 from Sunday night, demanding the release of six Naga men allegedly still in militant captivity.

The Kuki Inpi Manipur, the apex body of the Kuki community in the state, has also claimed that 14 members of the community remain missing and are being held hostage in Senapati district.

Security agencies are continuing operations in sensitive hill areas amid heightened tensions following the recent attacks and abductions.