IT News
Imphal, Sept 28:
One of the three Meitei youths kidnapped by armed Kuki militants while en route to attend the SSC GD recruitment at New Keithelmanbi has been rescued by the Army. The youths had been missing since yesterday afternoon around 3 pm, with their families losing contact during that time.
The rescued youth has been identified as Ningombam Johnson Singh, son of N. Sanjoy from Thoubal Khekman Maning Leikai. However, the other two youths, Oinam Thoithoi Singh from Thoubal Leishangthem Awang Leikai and Thokchom Thoithoiba Singh from Thoubal Khekman Wangmataba Mayai Leikai, are still missing. According to police, the last mobile phone signal from the trio was traced to Kanglatombi, suggesting that they might have taken a wrong route, potentially guided by Google Maps.
Johnson was reportedly handed over to Imphal West police by the Army stationed at Leimakhong. Despite his rescue, his family members have yet to meet or communicate with him. Police informed the family that Johnson had been taken to New Keithelmanbi to participate in the recruitment test. The two missing youths were believed to be accompanying Johnson for the recruitment event.
It was also noted that following the youths’ disappearance, Kuki groups allegedly uploaded posts on social media claiming to have captured three Meitei individuals, further spreading concern among the families and local community.
In response to the incident, a public meeting was held this morning at Thoubal Khekman Jila Keithel, where a Joint Action Committee (JAC) was formed. The JAC subsequently submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner of Thoubal District, urging immediate action for the rescue of the two remaining youths.
After submitting the memorandum, L. Subol, Convenor of the Peace and Relief Committee, met with the Additional Superintendent of Police (SP). Speaking to the media, Subol confirmed that the youths had been on their way for Army recruitment. While one youth had been rescued, he stressed the importance of arranging a meeting between the family and Johnson. He also urged the authorities to expedite efforts to locate and rescue the other two missing youths.
