Imphal: The remaining two Meitei youths, Oinam Thoithoi Singh from Thoubal Leishangthem Awang Leikai and Thokchom Thoithoiba Singh from Thoubal Khekman Wangmataba Mayai Leikai, who went missing on the evening of September 27, allegedly abducted by Kuki militants while en route to join an army recruitment rally at New Keithelmanbi, “have been brought back into the custody of Manipur police,” according to Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
On September 30, while paying floral tribute to Jana Neta Hijam Irawat, Chief Minister N Biren Singh stated that the State and Union Governments discussed the matter in detail. He had informed that the two missing youths are being held hostage by the Kuki militants and expressed optimism about their safe release.
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“The two young men abducted in Kangpokpi on 27th September, 2024 have been safely released. I sincerely appreciate everyone from both the state and central government who worked tirelessly to ensure their safe return. Your efforts are deeply valued,” wrote N Biren Singh on X.
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Of the three who were allegedly adducted initially on September 27, one of the Meitei youths was rescued by the Assam Rifles. Security forces managed to rescue Ningombam Johnson Singh following an intense search operation on the same day. However, the search continued for the other two missing youths.
According to EastMojo report, “the two youths were released in exchange for 11 Kuki-Zo undertrial prisoners lodged at Sajiwa Jail in Imphal. As per the agreement from both sides, these 11 Kuki-Zo prisoners were released on bail.”
It may be mentioned that in response to the abduction, 48-hour bandh in Thoubal district from 3 am on Tuesday, was called by a Joint Action Committee (JAC), following the State Government’s failure to secure the safe release of the two missing youths, demanding the safe release. The JAC later extended the same to a state-wide bandh.
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