Two men who had gone missing while working in a forested area of Kamjong district were found dead on Thursday, prompting the Government of Manipur to order an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Officials identified the deceased as Thangboimang Khongsai (35) from Shangkai in Ukhrul district and Thengin Baite (40) from the nearby Thawai Kuki village.
According to villagers, the two men had gone on Wednesday to repair water pipelines in a forest area but did not return home, raising concerns among local residents. Their bodies were later recovered at a short distance from each other by villagers and security personnel.
The recovery came hours after 21 Tangkhul Naga civilians, who had reportedly been detained by villagers and armed individuals from Shangkai, were released following negotiations.
NIA probe ordered
Addressing the matter in the state Assembly, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said the case would be handed over to the NIA for a thorough investigation.
He also announced that ex gratia assistance would be provided to the families of the deceased in accordance with government norms.
In a post on the social media platform X, the chief minister said the government was committed to ensuring justice and maintaining law and order while upholding the rule of law in the state.
Tensions escalate after recovery
Tensions escalated in the area after the bodies were recovered. Around 10 am, a police vehicle was attacked by a mob at Mongkot Chepu in Ukhrul district, officials said, leaving one vehicle damaged.
Meanwhile, protesters in Shangkai village blocked the Ukhrul–Imphal Road using stones and boulders to protest the killings, disrupting movement in the region.
Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!
App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540
Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share