A joint operation led by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) apprehended two individuals, Ayingbi and Pradip, on July 10, 2026, for alleged participation in the killing of six Naga civilians on May 13 in Leilon Vaiphei village, Manipur. The arrests come amid a protracted ethnic conflict involving Naga, Kuki‑Zo and Meitei communities that has plagued the state for years.

Background and Incident Timeline

On May 13, six Naga civilians were brutally murdered near Leilon Vaiphei, sparking outrage among Nagas and Meiteis alike. Protests erupted, and the affected communities blocked all access routes to Kangpokpi district, causing a sharp rise in essential commodity prices. The bodies were recovered on June 10, intensifying demands for swift justice.

Investigation and NIA’s Role

The operation was a coordinated effort involving Manipur Police, NIA and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), acting on credible intelligence. Early on Friday morning, the joint team entered the Kuki‑Zo village and detained the two suspects. Ayingbi, a woman, and Pradip, a male, are now facing criminal charges and will be presented before a court of law.

Community Reactions and Ongoing Controversy

Kuki‑Zo Council Chairman Henlienthang Thanglet publicly apologized, describing the killings as an “emotional mistake” and calling for an impartial investigation. However, the council later clarified that Thanglet’s remarks were misconstrued and did not constitute an admission of collective guilt. Nagas students’ groups have expressed anger, demanding accountability beyond symbolic apologies.

Implications for Manipur’s Peace Process

The arrests signal a decisive move by the central government to treat the ethnic violence as a national security challenge. Yet, lasting peace will require more than legal action; it demands genuine reconciliation, transparent inquiries, and sustained dialogue among the rival communities. How the courts handle this case could set a precedent for future conflict resolution in the region.