Security forces continuing search for hostages: Khemchand

Guwahati: Manipur chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Wednesday said security forces are continuing with search and combing operations to trace the whereabouts of the hostages.He added that four suspected persons believed to be involved in the kidnapping of six Naga civilians have already been arrested.Speaking to the media at Makhan Naga village in Kangpokpi district, the chief minister said investigation is progressing to nab all culprits linked to the incident. Stating that the govt shares the sentiments of the people regarding the hostage issue, he promised that the hostages will be traced soon.The Makhan Naga village currently houses a relief camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs). He visited the village and met the inmates who are taking shelter at the Makhen Baptist Church. The inmates also include Naga women and children of Konsakhul village, who were recently taken hostage and released by armed miscreants. The total number of inmates currently taking shelter in the village is around 35.He also inspected the village community hall and discussed with the village chief and district officials on the possibility of sheltering more IDPs. He instructed the Kangpokpi deputy commissioner to provide all necessary items like mattresses and mosquito nets. The village chief told the CM that many Nagas in Kangpokpi district had left their villages due to fear.The CM was accompanied by deputy CM Losii Dikho, MLAs Leishiyo Keishing, Awangbou Newmai, Heikham Dingo Singh, Janghemlung Panmei, Khashim Vashum, Ram Muivah, J Kumo Sha, home commissioner N Ashok Kumar, and DC Mahesh Chaudhari, among others.The govt statement said the CM was accorded a warm welcome upon his arrival at the Makhen Baptist Church guest house where he was briefed by the Makhan village chairman and the Konsakhul Village chairman on the hardships being faced by the inmates.