Two kidnapped youths in Manipur released after joint efforts by centre, state amid agitation

Imphal: Two young men from the Meitei community, who were kidnapped by Kuki militants on September 27, were released early Thursday morning, according to police reports. The youths were handed over to the Superintendent of Police in Kangpokpi around 5 am.

“They were safely handed over to the Kangpokpi District Police in the presence of Assam Rifles and CRPF officials at Gamgiphai. They were later taken to the Imphal Police Station,” the official said.

Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in a post on X said, “The two young men abducted in Kangpokpi on 27th September, 2024 have been safely brought back to the custody of Manipur Police. I sincerely appreciate everyone from both the state and Central government who worked tirelessly to ensure their safe return. Your efforts are deeply valued.”

The three victims—Ningombam Johnson (25), Oinam Thoithoi (27), and Thokchom Thoithoiba (28)—are residents of Thoubal district. They were taken by armed militants while travelling to an Army recruitment exam at New Keithelmanbi, located between Imphal West and Kangpokpi.

Johnson was rescued by the Army the day after the kidnapping, while the Director General of Police, Rajiv Singh, held meetings with the abductors across various districts to negotiate the release of the other two youths. Both state and central security forces worked tirelessly to secure their safe return.

The kidnapping had a significant impact on daily life in six Valley districts of Manipur, prompting a shutdown organised by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) in protest. JAC convenor L Subol stated that the agitation would continue until both youths were freed.

Additionally, Congress Lok Sabha MP Angomcha Bimol Akoijam wrote to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging him to take immediate action for the safe release of Thoithoi and Thoithoiba.

Agency