Aizawl, Jan 28, 2026: Mizoram Police on Tuesday issued an official statement regarding the death of Marina Lalchhanchhuahi (26) of Tanhril Vengpui, whose body was recovered on December 13, 2025, revealing that investigators had identified a prime suspect in the case and outlining developments that followed the disclosure.
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| Angry mob set the accused’s under-construction house on fire. |
According to the police, RL Peka (62), a resident of the same locality, was identified during the course of the investigation as the principal accused and was believed to be responsible for the incident. The announcement of the findings reportedly triggered strong reactions among local residents, leading to unrest in the area.
Police stated that following the public disclosure of the investigation's findings on January 27, an angry crowd allegedly set fire to an under-construction house belonging to RL Peka at Tanhril Vengpui. The structure sustained significant damage in the incident. Authorities have appealed to the public not to resort to acts of retaliation and to allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties in accordance with the law.
Providing details of the investigation, police said RL Peka had been under suspicion for some time and was summoned to appear before the Zonuam Police Outpost on December 16, 2025, for questioning in connection with the case. However, before he could be taken into custody or further interrogated, he reportedly fled from his residence.
Police further revealed that RL Peka later died under circumstances that remain under investigation. Authorities did not disclose specific details regarding the cause or circumstances of his death, stating only that inquiries are continuing and that all aspects of the matter are being examined.
The death of Marina Lalchhanchhuahi had drawn significant public attention since her body was recovered in December. Over the past several weeks, the case has generated widespread concern and calls for justice from residents and community members.
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In its statement, Mizoram Police emphasized that the investigation has been conducted with due diligence and that all available evidence has been examined carefully. Officials assured the public that the case would continue to be pursued through the appropriate legal process and that any remaining issues connected to the investigation would be addressed in accordance with the law.
The police also expressed concern over the arson incident and urged citizens to remain calm and avoid taking matters into their own hands. Authorities stressed that acts of vigilantism and mob action could undermine the justice process and create additional law-and-order challenges.
Officials reiterated their commitment to ensuring that justice is served through lawful means and appealed for cooperation from the public while investigations into both the death of Marina Lalchhanchhuahi and the subsequent incidents continue. Further legal procedures in connection with the case are currently underway.
