IMPHAL, MAY 28: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh claimed on Thursday that four persons suspected to be involved in the kidnapping of the six Naga civilians have already been arrested. He informed that the government is taking the issue seriously and search and combing operations by security forces are on to trace the whereabouts of the hostages.
Talking to reporters at Makhan Naga village in Kangpokpi district this morning, the Chief Minister said that investigations are underway to nab all the culprits involved in the unfortunate incident. Stating that the government shares the sentiments of the people regarding the hostage issue, he assured that the hostages will be traced soon.
The Makhan Naga village in Kangpokpi district housed a relief camp for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). He visited the village and met the inmates who are taking shelter at the Makhen Baptist Church. The inmates include Naga women and children of Konsakhul village, who were recently taken hostage and released by armed miscreants.
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The Chief Minister also distributed relief materials like rice, dal, potatoes, onion, edible oil, sugar, tea leaf and biscuits. The total number of inmates currently taking shelter in the village is around 35.
Khemchand Singh also inspected the village community hall and discussed with the village chief and district officials on the possibility of sheltering more IDPs. He instructed the deputy commissioner, Kangpokpi, to provide all necessary items like mattresses and mosquito nets. The village chief told the Chief Minister that many Nagas in Kangpokpi district had left their villages due to fear.
The Chief Minister was accorded a warm welcome upon his arrival at the Makhen Baptist Church guest house where Khemchand was briefed by the Makhan village chairman and the Konsakhul village chairman on the hardships being faced by the inmates.