Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, Jan 19:
The NSCN-IM has dismissed claims made by the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) regarding an alleged waylaying of six Kuki-Zo volunteers in the Tangkhul Hundung area. In a statement issued today, the NSCN-IM termed CoTU’s accusation as “regrettable, one-sided, and provocative,” asserting that the allegations are not grounded in reality.
According to the NSCN-IM, on January 17, 2025, the Naga Army stationed at Tangkhul Hundung, Ukhrul, conducted a routine vehicle check on a Gypsy traveling from Litan. Initially, the six occupants claimed to be civilians. However, a thorough inspection revealed one AK-47 rifle and 15 pouches of military equipment hidden in the vehicle. The NSCN-IM stated that four of the occupants were identified as Kuki militants who confessed they were heading to Molham Kuki Village camp.
The group also admitted to violating a standing directive by the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), which prohibits outsiders from carrying arms and wearing military uniforms in the area. The six individuals reportedly agreed to adhere to the directive in the future and were subsequently released in good faith.
The NSCN-IM also released the names of the six individuals: Seingam Luphao, Menlal, Goulen, Lhengoumang, Louma, and Mangzou.