SENAPATI: A Kuki minor held hostage by the Naga Village Guard (Northern Command) was released in Senapati on Thursday evening due to her age. The minor from Song Pehzang in Saikul was handed over to Senapati Police by the NVG (Northern Command) at around 5:07 PM. She is expected to be transferred to Kangpokpi Police.
A short while later, at the same undisclosed location, Pasat Chongloi (40) of Kuki Taphou was also handed over to the police at around 5:40 PM. Sources said he is a substance abuser and has been sent to the District Hospital for treatment, describing the move as one made on humanitarian grounds and as a goodwill gesture.
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The releases follow the handover of a Meitei individual a day earlier due to misidentification. With this, three people have been released so far, though several others are still believed to be in captivity. It is estimated that at least 23 people from the Kuki community are being held hostage as a counter to Kuki groups holding Nagas from Kangpokpi and Senapati districts hostage since May 13, 2026.
Members of the Naga Village Guard said the decision to release the Kuki woman came after requests from civil society organisations in Senapati, with her age and condition taken into account. They also maintained that the Meitei individual released earlier was handed over only after proper identification.
The NVG further clarified that no individuals from the Zomi community are currently being held within Senapati jurisdiction.
Despite these efforts, the situation on the ground remains tense. Security forces and civil society groups continue to work towards ensuring the safe return of those still being held and to prevent any further escalation.
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