Imphal, Oct 3 (UNI) Two Meitei youths who Kuki militants abducted on Sep 27 last were released on Thursday morning at Kangpokpi district.
Manipur Police source said only 11 persons were released. Some other cases involving cases handled by NIT were among those demanded by Kuki militants for the safe release of the two youths.
There is no official number of those released yet from the state government.
After seven days of negotiations, 11 Kuki inmates in jail for various crimes were also released.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said, "I sincerely appreciate everyone from both the state and central government who worked tirelessly to ensure their safe return. Your efforts are deeply valued."
Assam Rifles personnel helped in the final negotiation. Manipur Chief Minister discussed the matter with Opposition Leaders, O Ibobi, Congress President
K Meghachandra.
CM sent DGP Rajiv Singh twice to hold talks with the abductors.
Meanwhile COTU an organisation based in Kangpokpi said it helped in the negotiation.
Three youths who were going to attend an army recruitment of SSC GD at New Keithelmanbi had lost their way and reached a Kuki-dominated area. A massive manhunt was launched following which one Johnson Singh of Thoubal Khekman Maning Leikai was rescued.
Two youths identified as Oinam Thoithoi Singh and Thokchom Thoithoiba of Thoubal were in the custody of Kuki militants.
Over 31 persons including children who entered Kuki areas are still missing in Manipur after the crisis started on May 3, 2023.
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