NSCN (IM), UNC decry killings, abduction of Naga villagers
Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network

Imphal, May 13 2026: Various Naga organisations including the NSCN (IM) and the United Naga Council (UNC) have strongly condemned the Kangpokpi ambush today which killed three Church leaders and injured five others while the UNC has also come out strongly against the abduction of 20 Nagas of Konsakhul village by Kuki miscreants.

Condemning the incident, the NSCN (IM) said it was "deeply shocked and anguished by the ambush and brutal murder of three Church leaders belonging to the Thadou Baptist Association, between Kotlen and Kotzim villages" in Kangpokpi district.

NSCN (IM), UNC decry killings, abduction of Naga villagers

The victims were returning to Kangpokpi from Churachandpur after attending the TBA Conference.

The victims were not only unarmed civilians but highly respected Church leaders, said the NSCN (IM) .

"We convey our sincere condolences to the bereaved families and pray that they find strength and comfort during this difficult time.

The NSCN condemns in the strongest terms such devilish actions and requests the authorities to unearth the perpretors who had committed such unheard-of barbarism", said the NSCN (IM) .

It is also unfortunate that certain organisations have resorted to casting blame upon others without proper verification, while some may themselves be attempting to exploit the tragedy for ulterior motives at the expense of innocent lives, said the NSCN (IM).

"Such actions only further expose the extent to which certain Kuki organisations are willing to inflame the already volatile situation in the region", it added.

The NSCN (IM) then reiterated its unwavering stand for peace, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence among all communities.

At a time when tensions remain high, irresponsible accusations and retaliatory narratives will only deepen divisions and prolong suffering, it added.

The United Naga Council (UNC) also condemned the deadly ambush in the strongest terms.

It said Rev V Silthou, the former general secretary of the Manipur Baptist Convention, was among those killed.

"We extend our sincere and deepest condolences to the bereaved families and pray that the merciful God will grant them the grace to bear the great loss in this hour of grief," the UNC added.

"In a disturbing turn of event after a few hours of this ambush, it has been reported that about 20 Nagas of Konsakhul village have been held hostage by Leilon Vaiphei Kuki village," the UNC .

"We are not able to comprehend this action of Leilon Vaiphei village which seems to be a response to the very incident cited above which Nagas condemn without any reservation as fellow Christians," it said.

Targeting innocent villagers and holding them hostage is unacceptable and violates all norms of civilized society.

Such action only deepens wounds and would escalate tensions between communities, the UNC added.

It then appealed to the concerned party to immediately release the hostages unconditionally respecting the right to life and dignity of every individual, irrespective of community.

It also called on civil society organizations, Church leaders and community leaders of all communities to stand together against violence and work together towards restoration of peaceful coexistence and communal harmony.