Imphal, July 26: While hailing the vigilant public of Keibi Heikak Mapal for apprehending four individuals who attempted to kidnap a boy yesterday, the proscribed United national Liberation Front (UNLF) has contended that one of them is a UNLF impostor.

It may be recounted that following information of a boy being whisked away from a playing field located in Huidrom and driven away in a maruti Van locals of Keibi Heikak Mapal had blocked the possible escape route and rescued the boy besides apprehending four alleged kidnappers with one them identifying himself as a UNLF activist namely Ningombam Nanao.

Explaining on the UNLF contention, a statement issued by the outfit's senior publicity officer Ksh Yoiheiba said N Nanao alias Naoba (18) s/o N Inaocha of huidrom Mayai Leikai was an associate of its former Local Member Salam Keshorjit alias Jila alias Boicha of Khurai Salanthong.

Presently a resident of Sekta staying at his wife's maternal home, Keshorjit had been expelled from the organisation as he was found to be involved in numerous activities detrimental/disgraceful to the interest and image of the UNLF, maintained Yoiheiba in addition to citing questionable commitment to the organisation for the 18 year old's expulsion.

While reminding that UNLF cadres had punished Keshorjit with bullets pumped on both legs in June this year for his misdemeanours, the statement clarified that the remaining three are not its local members.

Further conceding that some individuals from places such as Sekta, Keibi and Taretkhul are posing as UNLF activists apart from these persons having established relationship with other armed groups for personal interest and benefit, Yoiheiba stated that the UNLF is aware of these individuals' involvement in mischievous acts like robbery, snatching mobile phone handsets etc at Natum Ching (hillock) areas.

While reiterating its appreciation to the vigilant act of Keibi Heikak Mapal residents, UNLF also said it expects similar alertness and commitment of the general masses in weeding out individuals that pose threat to social harmony.

Yoiheiba also urged the people to convey information to the UNLF in case dubious characters are observed.

UNLF also dismissed recent remarks of Imphal East district's Superintendent of Police Th Radheshyam as malicious and intent on tarnishing the outfit's image.