Kohima, May 29 2009: In a major development following the intervention of the Central Government as well as Naga Hoho and various other organizations in Nagaland, the NSCN-IM has handed over Dr Kishan murder prime accused 'ss lieutenant colonel' H.Ningshen to Naga Hoho on Thursday.

Confirming the reports today, Naga Hoho president, Keviletuo Kiewhuo told NNN today that the NSCN-IM leadership handed over the H.Ningshen to Naga Hoho on Thursday from the custody of Naga Army at General Headquarters (GHQ) Hebron and subsequently it (Hoho) handed over the accused to the Government of India (GoI) authorities.

The government of India had reportedly sent their representatives in a special aircraft to Dimapur to pick up H.Ningshen.

The NSCN-IM 'official' was allegedly involved in the high profile murder of SDO of Kasom, Dr Th.Kishan and two of his associates in Manipur on February 17 last.

Meanwhile, a press statement issued by Naga Hoho informed that "in the backdrop of unprecedented situation arising out of the killing of Dr Th Kishan, SDO and two of his associates in Manipur and the subsequent stalemate between NSCN-IM and Government of India over the issue, the Naga Hoho with the support and endorsement of civil societies/ social organizations including the Eastern Naga People's Organization intervened into the matter towards hammering out amicable solution particularly in the interest of NSCN-IM and Government of India and the Nagas in general.

"This was necessitated considering the on-going peace efforts among the different Naga political groups and the peace process between the Nagas and Government of India", the Naga Hoho statement said.

Asserting that it was painful on the part of Naga Hoho to intervene in such a stalemate between the two entities involving various factors, the Naga apex body announced that its intervention has averted the impending break down of ceasefire, political negotiations and a bloody war.

It expressed confidence that the same seriousness/sincerity would be forthcoming from both the entities while sitting across the table to resolve the long standing political issues.

The Naga Hoho also expressed appreciation to Government of Nagaland and security personnel for extending fullest cooperation till the departure of H.Ningshen from Dimapur airport.

It also extended gratitude to both Government of India and NSCN-IM leadership for extending cooperation and their positive response.

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