COTU Calls 48-Hour Shutdown in Kangpokpi Over Youth Abductions

KANGPOKPI, 29 October 2026: The Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU), Sadar Hills, Kangpokpi District, has declared a 48-hour total shutdown across the entire Kangpokpi district in response to the abduction of two innocent Kuki youths.   

In a press statement on October 29, COTU strongly condemns the kidnapping incident, which occurred on October 28, 2026, between Hengbung and Taphou Kuki Village. 

The tribal body attributed the abduction to Naga militants.   Abducted Individuals IdentifiedThe two abducted youths have been identified as:   Mr. Thangginlun Chongloi (21), son of Paominlal Chongloi, resident of Taphou Kuki.   

Mr. Paoginlal Hangsing (20), son of Haolet Hangsing, resident of Taphou Kuki.   

The total shutdown will take effect starting October 29, 2026, at 5:00 PM and will remain in force until October 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM.   

During this period:   All commercial establishments, shops, and local markets will remain closed.   Educational institutions, offices, and private/public transport movement will be suspended.

Only medical emergencies, media personnel, and security forces are exempted from the restrictions.

COTU voiced strong condemnation against state authorities and security forces, alleging severe security lapses and a "step-motherly treatment" toward the Kuki-Zo community.   

The organisation highlighted what it termed a double standard in administrative response:   When non-Kuki-Zo communities face distress, security forces and the state government initiate prompt rescue operations, combing drives, and high-level attention.   

In contrast, when members of the Kuki-Zo community are targeted, abducted, or attacked, the response is often characterized by administrative inaction, delays, or silence.

COTU stated that this biased approach has emboldened lawless elements in the region.   

The tribal leadership demanded the immediate, safe, and unconditional release of both youths, urging the government to launch rescue operations on a war footing. 

COTU warned that failure to secure the safe and unharmed release of the abducted individuals would compel the organisation to intensify its agitation, holding both the state government and the perpetrators accountable for any resulting consequences.