Free all hostages, urges AMCO
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 19 2026: The All-Manipur Christian Organization has strongly condemned the abduction of innocent civilians including Pastors from Leilon Vaiphei village on May 13 .

The abduction in broad daylight occurred immediately after the ambush and killing of three prominent Thadou Baptist Association leaders including its president Rev Dr Vumthang Sitlhou, said AMCO in a statement.

The current tense situation in Manipur is a result of the "abrupt abduction" of Naga civilians by Kukis as "scapegoats" without verification and proof of the community's involvement in the ambush.

While the abduction of the Naga civilians "triggered counter kidnapping," AMCO said responsible groups on both sides should immediately release all the hostages unharmed on humanitarian ground.

"Human lives are precious and must never be used as instruments of violence, intimidation, or retaliation," it said.

AMCO further criticised the Central Government, the State Government and law enforcement agencies for their "biased" conducts, negligence and failure to maintain the law and order in the State and protect the lives of the people.

It said all political leaders, civil society leaders, Christian leaders and security agencies should make every possible effort to ensure the safe release of all the abducted individuals of both the communities without further delay to avoid escalation of tension and flare up of communal conflicts.

Targeting innocent civilians without sparing even anointed servants of God is a grave violation of humanity, justice, and the values of peaceful coexistence.

Such barbarism and senseless act only deepens anger, hatred, mistrust and enmity among the communities, and threatens the fragile peace and harmony in the strife-torn State which has been reeling under untold suffering since May 3, 2023, AMCO said.

Violence against innocent civilians and religious leaders must end for peace to return to Manipur, it added.

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