Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Saturday assured that the state government is taking all necessary steps to ensure justice in the Leilon Vaiphei abduction and killing case, stating that two of the five suspects identified by the victims’ families have already been arrested.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the launch of the ‘Uningthou Uyok’ plantation drive at the SEEDS Complex in Olympian Park, the Chief Minister recalled that three pastors were killed in an ambush on May 13, following which around 18 people were allegedly captured by suspected Kuki militants at Leilon Vaiphei village. While 12 were later released, six persons were abducted and subsequently killed.
Singh said he had personally visited Makhan village along with Meitei and Naga legislators, where the victims’ families identified five alleged perpetrators. Based on their inputs, security agencies arrested two suspects, while efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining accused. He said the government has directed law enforcement agencies to expedite the investigation and ensure justice.
The Chief Minister also launched the ‘Uningthou Uyok’ plantation programme under the Department of Environment and Climate Change’s ‘Ching-Pat-Turel’ campaign, aimed at promoting environmental conservation through the plantation of Manipur’s state tree. He later inspected Olympian Park and directed officials to immediately restore damaged infrastructure and improve water supply so that the park can be reopened to the public at the earliest.
Meanwhile, security forces have intensified operations across the state following the July 6 ambush in Ukhrul district in which two Assam Rifles personnel — Warrant Officer Balwant Singh and Havildar C.M. Singh — were killed after suspected militants opened fire on their convoy.
Joint teams of the Assam Rifles, Border Security Force (BSF) and Manipur Police have launched extensive search operations in the Nungshang area, conducting combing exercises in residential localities, vulnerable routes and surrounding forests to trace the attackers, recover hidden weapons and maintain security. The Assam Rifles said the operation reflects the security forces’ commitment to restoring peace and bringing those responsible to justice.
The NSCN (IM), however, denied any involvement in the attack and reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire agreement and the ongoing peace process.
In another incident on July 11, a mob of nearly 600 people allegedly attempted to march towards Kanto Sabal. Security forces intervened swiftly and prevented a possible communal clash. Authorities also foiled an attempt by miscreants to set fire to abandoned houses, ensuring there was no loss of life. Police have registered a case, and further investigation is underway.
Security forces said they remain committed to maintaining peace, law and order in the violence-hit state, where more than 260 people have lost their lives since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023.
