Chümoukedima, January 23: The alleged abduction of local businessman Kiyeto Zhimomi from near his residence on January 19 has sparked widespread concern in Chümoukedima, prompting strong police action and a detailed clarification from Nagaland’s Director General of Police (DGP) Rupin Sharma.
 |
| DGP Rupin Sharma |
Addressing the media at the Police Complex in Chümoukedima, the DGP outlined the sequence of events following the abduction and categorically stated that no faction or organisation has any authority to abduct, summon, or detain civilians under any circumstances.
According to the DGP, an FIR was lodged by the victim’s wife at Buppa Police Station soon after the incident. Following the complaint, the Dimapur Police Commissionerate, along with Nagaland Police units, central security forces including the Assam Rifles, and the Indian Reserve Battalion, launched coordinated operations to trace those involved in the crime.
As part of the investigation, police cordoned off the Ceasefire Supervisory Board Office of the NSCN (Khango–Vusshe) faction on January 22 and demanded the surrender of seven accused allegedly involved in the abduction. The operation led to a day-long “silent standoff,” during which police avoided confrontation while engaging in dialogue with the faction’s functionaries.
The DGP said police entered and searched the premises around 6 pm on January 22, but none of the accused were found inside. He added that the faction was fully aware of the individuals involved and the instructions under which the abduction had been carried out.
So far, three cadres have been produced before the Nagaland Police for investigation. Four others remain absconding, including two prime accused. Sharma stated that further arrests could follow as investigations continue.
ALSO READ: NSCN (Khango–Vusshe) Claims Responsibility for Abduction of Businessman Kiyeto Zhimomi
Referring to a communication from the Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG), the DGP said the faction had clearly violated ceasefire ground rules. The letter reportedly stressed that ceasefire groups have no role in maintaining law and order and must not resort to abduction, violence, or intimidation. Any grievances, he said, should be addressed through legal channels or the CFMG.
The DGP also appealed to the public not to comply with summons issued by any faction, warning that such compliance could itself amount to an offence. “No group has the right to summon or detain civilians. The public must approach the police in case of any crime,” he said.
On allegations raised against the victim during a press briefing by the faction, Sharma clarified that the police would investigate any cognisable offence if a formal complaint supported by evidence is submitted. “Victim or accused, no one is above the law,” he asserted.
Supporting civil society demands for shifting ceasefire offices away from populated areas, the DGP said such facilities are meant solely to facilitate peace and prevent misunderstandings, and their misuse creates fear among the public.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to peace and rule of law, Sharma assured that Nagaland Police would act firmly against all violations and urged all factions to strictly adhere to ceasefire ground rules in the interest of public safety and development.
