Large number of people today gathered at Patsoi area along the NH-37 and blocks all forms of traffic by burning tyres and plank in the middle of the road since early morning today in protest against the killing of two youths by armed group Kuki Revolutionary Front (KRF). Decrying the killing of the two innocent labourers, a public meeting was also held at Patsoi -3 area community hall with leaders of the civil society organisations – All Manipur United Club Organisation (AMUCO) and United Committee Manipur (UCM) as well as other local Meira Paibi organisations. Speaking at the meeting President of UCM, Elangbam Johnson said that government should be held responsible for the death of the two youths, he said human lives cannot be bargain with the ex-gratia or any form of compensation. He also slammed the government for allowing free movement and activities by the rebel groups which has been ensuing suspension of operation or peace talk with the government saying that these people are committing all kinds of crimes against the civilians.
It may be mentioned that two labourers identified as Maibam Premananda (15) son M. Bihari of Haorang Keirang and Moinrangthem Dayananda (19) son of Birahari were reported killed during an interrogation by the cadres of the KRF. Both the deceased along with a 12 years old minor were reported missing since May 10 of this year after they were kidnapped by the cadres of the KRF. The armed group alleged the three of being informer to another underground outfit.
The 12 years old minor identified as Konthoujam Bishal (12) s/o K Bikom of Haobam Marak Lourembam Leikai also sustain injury after the cadre assaulted him during the interrogation . he is presently undergoing treatment at RIMS in a critical condition . Bishal is a class 6 student of Negi Home Academy, a residential school located at Maipou Khullen under Gamnom Sapermeina Police Station. According to family members the KRF cadres handed over a sum of rupees 5000 for treatment of him.
Meanwhile, a team of Imphal east and Imphal West police commando arrested eight cadres of KRF during a massive hunt for the kidnappers at Thingshat Village in Senapati district under Sapermeina police station.
