Two missing Kuki men found dead in Manipur's Kangpokpi district
Protests and clashes between demonstrators and security forces left three people injured after the bodies were recovered.
The bodies of two missing Kuki men, identified as Paoginlal Hangsing, 20, and Tinginlun Chongloi, 20, were recovered on Sunday in Manipur's Kangpokpi district. The men had been missing since October 28 after being reportedly abducted by unidentified miscreants while travelling between Hengbung and Taphou Kuki village.
A joint search operation involving the Manipur Police, CoBRA, CRPF, Assam Rifles, and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) recovered the bodies from an area east of National Highway 2, along the Senapati-Phaibung Road. Officials said search and combing operations will continue to apprehend those responsible for the killings.
Tensions escalated when the Superintendent of Police (SP), Kangpokpi, brought the bodies to the district hospital. Protesters attempted to storm the SP's office, leading to clashes with security personnel. Police used tear gas shells and live rounds in the air, while protesters used stones and slingshots.
At least three protesters were injured in the confrontation and evacuated to a healthcare centre for first aid. The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has announced it will not accept the mortal remains until five demands are met.
CoTU spokesperson Ng. Lun Kipgen demanded the removal of Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho from the state cabinet. Other demands include transferring Taphou Kuki village to Kangpokpi jurisdiction, removing the NSCN-IM's Huthrong Brigade from its Oklong camp, transferring the case to the NIA, and arresting those involved in the killings.