Manipur: Missing youths plead for rescue in video, one rescued

A video has surfaced on social media showing two youths, suspected to have been kidnapped by suspected Kuki militants, pleading for help from Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The video has sparked alarm, with the victims urging the government to consider them "as sons" and take action to meet the demands of the kidnappers.

The incident involves three youths, who went missing on September 27, around 3 p.m., while en route to New Keithelmanbi for an SSC GD recruitment test. Families lost contact with them, prompting a search. One of the missing individuals, Ningombam Johnson Singh, son of N. Sanjoy from Thoubal Khekman Maning Leikai, was rescued by Army personnel stationed at Leimakhong. He was subsequently handed over to the Imphal West Police, bringing some relief to his family.

However, the other two youths—Oinam Thoithoi Singh from Thoubal Leishangthem Awang Leikai and Thokchom Thoithoiba Singh from Thoubal Khekman Wangmataba Mayai Leikai—remain missing. As their families grow increasingly desperate, the video has amplified their anguish, showing the two hostages allegedly being held by Kuki terrorists, who appear to be using the video as leverage for their demands.

In response to the situation, the families and the local community have rallied for action. A public meeting was convened at Thoubal Khekman Jila Keithel, where a Joint Action Committee (JAC) was formed to escalate the issue. The JAC has since submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner of Thoubal District, urging swift intervention to secure the safe return of the remaining youths.

Following the submission, L. Subol, Convenor of the Peace and Relief Committee, met with the Additional Superintendent of Police (SP) to discuss immediate rescue efforts. The families continue to appeal to authorities for urgent action as the situation grows more dire.

Also read: Manipur: Two youths missing, one rescued on route to SSC GD test