Manipur Violence: 8 Detained after bodies of 6 abducted Naga men recovered

Fresh tensions have erupted in Manipur after the bodies of six Naga men, who were allegedly abducted from Kangpokpi district last month, were recovered during a major joint search operation. Authorities have also detained eight individuals amid fears of renewed violence in the hill districts.

The bodies were found on Wednesday following an extensive operation involving around 450 personnel from the Manipur Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Assam Rifles. Search teams were assisted by sniffer dogs and forensic experts during the nearly 24-hour mission.

According to police, the deceased are believed to be among six members of the Naga community who were allegedly abducted from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district on May 13.

Reacting to the incident, Manipur Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh said the government would not remain a “mute spectator” to such atrocities and assured that appropriate action would be taken against those responsible.

In an official statement, the Chief Minister reiterated the government's commitment to maintaining peace, security, and law and order in the state amid ongoing ethnic tensions.

Eight Detained During Security Operation

Following intelligence inputs regarding possible fresh attacks, security forces launched a joint operation in the Horei Kaphung hills of Ukhrul district. During the operation, security personnel reportedly encountered a group of armed individuals.

Police said eight villagers were detained after being found carrying weapons. They were later disarmed and released after being warned. A substantial cache of arms and ammunition was also recovered from illegal bunkers in the area.

Violence Continues to Trouble Manipur

The latest development comes just days after fresh violence in Kangpokpi district, where three people, including a woman, were killed in an armed attack on Loibol Khullen village. Several houses were also set ablaze during the incident.

Meanwhile, the bodies of the six deceased men were brought to the mortuary of the Jawaharlal Institute of Medical Sciences in Imphal for identification and post-mortem procedures.

Hundreds of people gathered outside the mortuary following the arrival of the bodies. Security forces used tear gas to disperse sections of the crowd as tensions rose.

The Neiphiu Rio expressed grief over the deaths and extended condolences to the families of the victims.

The incident has once again highlighted the fragile security situation in Manipur, where ethnic clashes and armed confrontations have continued to challenge efforts to restore lasting peace.