CNPO clarifies on excavator hijack incident
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, July 17 2025:
Chandel Naga People's Organisation (CNPO) has issued a clarification in connection with its statement on July 15, regarding the action of 28 Sector Assam Rifles in the hijacking of a JCB excavator on February 5, near Kanan Kuki village, Chandel district.
Conceding that the statement was factually incorrect due to a misunderstanding, a CNPO release issued on Wednesday by its Information Cell informed that the vehicle in question was taken into protective custody by AR during outbreak of the May 2023 ethnic violence and later returned to its rightful owner after thorough verification and documentation procedures.
The reported hijacking incident occurred after the vehicle's official release, when it was no longer under AR's custody.
The role of 28 Sector AR was confined to lawfully safeguarding and handing over the vehicle to its rightful owner, showcasing their professionalism, CNPO said.
"We appreciate their (AR) efforts in maintaining peace and supporting the local community amidst challenging circumstances.
We regret any earlier implications of inaction by AR in the subsequent incident and reaffirm our appreciation for their continued efforts," maintained the CNPO statement.




