Twenty-eight civilians belonging to different communities who were detained in the aftermath of the deadly May 13 ambush in Kangpokpi district have been safely released following coordinated efforts by the administration, security forces, civil society organisations and community leaders, officials said today.
The releases came amid rising tensions across Kangpokpi, Senapati and adjoining hill districts following a series of violent incidents, including the killing of three church leaders and reports of retaliatory detentions involving civilians from different communities.
According to police, unidentified armed assailants ambushed civilian vehicles at Zero Point along the Kotlen–Kotzim inter-village road in Kangpokpi district on May 13, killing three church leaders and injuring four others. On the same day, another civilian was shot dead and his wife critically injured in Noney district.
The attacks reportedly triggered retaliatory actions, with several civilians allegedly detained and taken to undisclosed locations near Leilon Vaiphei, Saparmeina and adjoining areas.
Among those released were 12 Naga women from Konsakhul village who were freed at Makhan village after reportedly being held captive by armed militants. Authorities also confirmed the release of 14 Kuki civilians, including four men and 10 women, who had allegedly been detained in Senapati district and were later handed over to security personnel.
Police further confirmed that two Salesian brothers associated with Don Bosco institutions, including one from Nagaland, were also released separately.
A police statement said immediate search operations were launched in and around the ambush site and neighbouring villages after the attack. The government subsequently initiated intensive coordination with public leaders, civil society organisations and security agencies to secure the release of the detained civilians.
Officials stated that while the majority of those detained have now been released safely, efforts are continuing to trace and secure the release of the remaining persons believed to still be in captivity.
State Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam had earlier said the government was actively engaging with civil society groups and political leaders to defuse tensions and ensure the safe return of all civilians.
Despite the releases, concerns continue to grow over the deteriorating security situation in Manipur’s hill districts, where recurring violence, targeted attacks and retaliatory detentions have heightened fears of further escalation.
No arrests have been officially confirmed so far in connection with the deadly ambush or the alleged abductions.