KNF (N) Clarifies Abduction of Mathotmi Chahong

Imphal, February 10, 2014 – The Kuki National Front (Nehlun) has claimed responsibility for the abduction of Mathotmi Chahong, Village Secretary of Island Tangkhul Village, on the night of February 7, 2014.

According to a press statement released today by Mr. Gogou Vaiphei, Secretary of Information & Publicity, KNF (Nehlun), the abduction was carried out by the outfit’s Special Task Force Unit. He stated that the incident was directly linked to a financial agreement from July 2013. “Mathotmi Chahong had signed a letter acknowledging responsibility for a negotiated amount of Rs 20 lakh, of which Rs 15 lakh was paid at the time, with the remaining Rs 5 lakh to be paid within two months. However, he later evaded the issue despite repeated reminders,” the statement read.

The KNF (N) emphasized that there was no other viable solution but to detain Chahong. “We, too, are human and feel for the situation, but it was unavoidable,” the statement added.

The outfit criticized organizations such as the United Naga Council (UNC) and the Tangkhul Naga Village Secretary Association (TNVSA) for releasing statements without proper investigation. It urged them to address the matter factually rather than creating unnecessary tensions.

Clarifying allegations of kidnapping for ransom, the KNF (N) referred to a press conference held on February 2, 2014, where its President, Dr. Napoleon Kremlin, had declared that ransom abductions were against the organization’s principles and policies. The group asserted that Chahong’s abduction was not a ransom case but a consequence of the unresolved financial negotiation from 2013. It also urged against communalizing the issue.

“We assure that he is in good health under our custody, though he requires regular medication, which is being provided. His release depends on the course of action taken by security forces currently conducting combing operations in the area,” the KNF (N) stated.

The outfit further accused MLA Yamthong Haokip of engaging in political manipulation. “He should stop his behind-the-scenes instigation for political gain, as his tactics will not yield positive results. As an elected leader, he should come forward openly instead of resorting to cunning strategies,” the statement concluded.

 

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