Ukhrul, Jan 16: Six individuals have been arrested in connection with the abduction and subsequent death of Md. Nawash, 33, a resident of Keirang Mayai Leikai under Heingang Police Station.
According to Manipur Police, Nawash was abducted from his home on January 14, 2025, allegedly by suspected members of the group Arambai Tenggol (AT). His body was discovered at Thoubal District Hospital on January 16.
The police identified the six arrested individuals as Sagolsem Chingkheinganba Singh, 25; Chingakham Sanatomba Singh, 19; Sapam Somorjit Singh, 32; Maibam Bokenjit Singh, 24; Athokpam Jiban Singh, 30; Chingakham Mani Singh, 41.
Authorities suspect that the abduction was motivated by ransom.
Must read | Manipur Tribal body locks TRI Office
Also read | Arambai Tenggol warns against Unauthorized use of name, says will take Legal Action
Meanwhile, reacting to the abduction and death of the victim, a Meetei/Meitei Pangal (Muslim), the Arambai Tenggol Unit-2, Andro Branch, has issued a clarification stating it has no involvement in the death of an accused drug user apprehended by certain individuals misusing the unit’s name on January 15.
In an official statement, the AT unit revealed that the perpetrators who misused its name have been apprehended by the unit itself and handed over to the police for necessary legal action.
Also read | No Agreement without Financial, Executive, Legislative Autonomy: ENPO
The incident has put Arambai Tenggol under scrutiny yet again after the accusation against the Arambai Tenggol of torture, force feeding a Muslim boy to eat pork on allegations of molestation. The Muslim CSOs and religious bodies in Manipur had condemned the act in the early part of January 2025. The latest incident involving the AT raises concerns about its activities and internal controls. Authorities are investigating whether the suspects acted independently or on the group’s orders, amid growing calls for accountability.
Also read | FNR NPGs meet Resolves to implement Council of Naga Cooperation and Relationship