Imphal : The bodies of six individuals were recovered from the Karam Vaiphei area of Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on Wednesday following an extensive search operation, raising fears that they may be among the Naga civilians reported missing after being taken hostage during the recent ethnic violence in the state.

According to Manipur Police, the recovery was made after nearly 24 hours of coordinated search efforts involving around 450 personnel from the state police, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Assam Rifles. The operation was supported by sniffer dogs and forensic experts.

In an official statement, the police said the deceased are believed to be among those allegedly abducted from Leilon Vaiphei on May 13, 2026. However, authorities have not yet formally confirmed their identities.

The bodies are expected to be transported to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal for post-mortem examinations and identification procedures. Officials said legal formalities are being completed and an investigation into the incident is underway.

The case stems from violence that erupted on May 13 when several individuals from different communities, including members of the Naga community, were reportedly taken hostage from the Leilon Vaiphei area. The alleged abductions occurred in the aftermath of an ambush near Saheibung village in Kangpokpi district, where three Thadou church leaders were killed.

Authorities had earlier reported that of the 38 people from various communities who were held captive by armed groups during the unrest in Kangpokpi and Senapati districts, 31 were released on May 15. The fate of the remaining six missing Naga individuals had remained uncertain.

The recovery of the six bodies comes a day after 14 Kuki hostages were released following 27 days in captivity. The handover was facilitated by the United Naga Council (UNC) in the presence of district administration officials, police personnel, and security forces.

Speaking on the development, UNC president Ng Lorho said the decision to facilitate the release of the Kuki hostages reflected the Naga community’s commitment to humanitarian values and established norms during conflict situations.

Lorho noted that the council’s intervention was influenced by assurances from both the Union and Manipur governments regarding efforts to trace the six missing Naga individuals. He also cited appeals from church organisations, tribal bodies, and civil society groups across the region seeking a resolution to the hostage crisis.

Authorities are awaiting post-mortem examinations and identification to conclusively establish the identities of the deceased. Investigations are continuing, and further details are expected as the inquiry progresses.