Abducted labourers return after 9 days
Source: The Sangai Express

CCpur, February 19 2016 : Two labourers who were reportedly abducted by armed men last week allegedly for ransom have returned safely today, nine days after they were picked up amongst a group of 8 labourers camped on a worksite near Buongbal village in Singngat sub-division.

The incident became public early today as news about their safe release reached their relatives who were withholding information ever since Muanlianthang, 40 son of (L) Ekpau and Ginsuanmang, 40 son of Ginlam were abducted on January 10 midnight by 5 armed men.

Sources said the family had withheld the kidnapping episode from the public as their captors had threatened to eliminate them if the abduction ever comes out in the press.

Abducted labourers return after 9 days

It is not exactly known if ransom had been paid to secure the release of the labourers as both their families and the Contractor who employs them refused to make any comment on the issue.

Nevertheless it is said that the abductors had initially demanded Rs 50 lakh for their safe release along with the rider that the incident should be kept away from the media.

Pressures from various CSOs including the VPC, Zillai, YVA, KIC, KSO and KKL also played a major role in securing their release, sources said.

Recounting their tale during an emotional reception held at Special Contractor S Mangbeldam's residence at Lingsiphai, the duo said they were taken across the Khuga River by boat a day after they were taken away by the men who were armed with an AK rifle, a pistol and a hand grenade.

Thereafter they were reportedly taken to a secluded jhum hut after walking on foot for four consecutive days, where they spent 3 nights and three days.

The kidnappers had carried enough ration to feed them during their four days walk and cooked them wherever water was spotted, they said but did not mention who they are or which armed group they belong to.

The duo was dropped-off today at Sungnu bus parking at Rengkai Road, after which they contacted their families.

Taking note of the incident Vaiphei Peoples' Council (VPC) Ghqs today issued a statement saying they are extremely appalled by the February 10 incident in which two labourers from Lingsiphai were abducted for ransom.

It deplored the commission of such an act and condemned it in its totality.

'The VPC stands for peaceful co-existence and mutual respect of all kindred tribes.

However, if any misadventure is designed on the Vaiphei people, the council and its people will deal with the situation as it sees fit,' it added.