Brief tension at Kangpokpi’s Saparmeina amid hostage crisis; community leaders cite misunderstanding

A brief confrontation involving a group of Kuki-Zo women and a CRPF convoy at Saparmeina in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on May 21 was triggered by a misunderstanding amid heightened tensions over people being held captive in Senapati district, community representatives said.

According to Kuki-Zo women leaders, a group of women gathered near Saparmeina while seeking urgent intervention for the safe return of individuals from the community who are reportedly being held hostage in Senapati.

Community representatives stated that the women, many of them family members of those affected, approached vehicles on the route hoping to draw the attention of security personnel and appeal for assistance.

A Kuki-Zo women leader said there was no intention to obstruct the movement of security forces and described the gathering as an emotional response by distressed families amid the ongoing situation.

The CRPF convoy reportedly viewed the gathering as an obstruction to convoy movement, leading to a brief period of tension at the location.

The situation was later defused after intervention by community leaders, following which the convoy proceeded without further incident.

Community representatives also appealed for restraint in reporting sensitive developments and urged authorities to remain vigilant in vulnerable areas. They further called for understanding among communities during the continuing tensions.

There has been no official statement from security agencies regarding the incident so far.