SENAPATI: More than 5,000 people assembled at the Traffic Island in Senapati on Thursday evening for a candlelight vigil held in memory of Late S.W. Chinaoshang and Late Yaruingam Vashum, who were killed in a brutal ambush along NH-202 in Ukhrul district on April 18, 2026.
The solemn programme, held at 6:30 pm, was jointly organised by the Naga People’s Organisation (NPO), Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA), and Senapati District Women Association (SDWA), under the aegis of the United Naga Council (UNC). Leaders from various civil bodies, church organisations, student groups, and members of the public attended the vigil.
The gathering observed a one-minute silence led by Rev. A. Pfokrelo, Executive Secretary of the Mao Baptist Church Association, in honour of the departed.
Speaking at the vigil, NPO President Kuba Peter condemned the killings as “brutal and senseless,” stating that the loss was not only for the bereaved families but for the entire Naga community. He called for justice and urged authorities to ensure accountability, while also appealing to the public to uphold peace, unity, and dignity during such difficult times.
UNC President Ng. Lorho, in his address, described the incident as a “cold and orchestrated ambush” and termed it an attack on the safety and rights of Nagas. He stressed that national highways must remain safe corridors and raised concerns over security lapses, urging responsible authorities to act decisively.
He also reiterated that the three-day shutdown called by the UNC was a mark of collective mourning and not intended to cause hardship. Emphasising unity, Lorho stated that the loss was felt across all Naga-inhabited regions, transcending state boundaries.