Hokashe Muru, MIP Kilonser (Left) and H Kiba, Finance Secretary of the NSCN-K (Khango-Hokato) addressing the media at the NPG’s CFSB in Thilixu village, Chümoukedima on January 21. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | January 21
The NSCN-K (Khango-Hokato) claimed responsibility for the January 19 alleged abduction of one businessman, Kiyeto Zhimomi, also known as Kits Zhimo. Addressing a press conference at the group's Ceasefire Supervisory Board (CFSB) office, on January 21, the Naga Political Group’s (NPG) MIP Kilonser Hokashe Muru stated the action was executed under a “standing order” regarding alleged financial irregularities involving the Railway Courier Union, of which Zhimomi is said to be the President.
Muru alleged that Zhimomi had collected taxes from railway firms and companies but failed to remit the group’s share for over 18 months. While the group estimated the dues between Rs 40 and 50 lakhs, a settlement of Rs 30 lakhs was reached. Muru maintained the agreement was signed with Zhimomi’s consent, denying allegations of duress.
"That was not extortion, nor kidnapping. Because we are National Workers... taking willing contributions from the business community and the public is a legitimate tax," Muru said.
The businessman was abducted on the evening of January 19 and released around 2:00 am on January 20 to members of the Western Sümi Youth Front (WSYF). Zhimomi alleged he was blindfolded, taken to an undisclosed location, and subjected to physical torture. He claimed his captors initially demanded Rs 40 lakh before forcing him to sign a bond fearing for his life.
Muru held that Zhimomi was “arrested,” not abducted. He refuted the allegation that Zhimomi was tortured while in captivity. According to him, Zhimomi was hit a couple of times on the limbs when he resisted his arrest.
Muru claimed that Zhimomi provocated the cadre, who were sent to arrest him, by trying to take control of the steering wheel of the car in which he was being transported. “We broke the glass of his car at one spot to get him out safely," Muru said.
He defended the use of blindfolds as standard security protocol but denied reports that Zhimomi was detained or assaulted at the CFSB office.
Countering Zhimomi’s allegations, Muru accused the former of being a “kingpin” in the transportation of illegal poppy seeds and “foreign” areca nuts, alongside allegations of involvement in stolen vehicle rackets.
The NPG’s Finance Secretary H Kiba, was also named by Zhimomi as an accomplice in the alleged abduction. Kiba denied personal involvement in the abduction, stating, “I was not involved in this particular incident in a personal capacity whatsoever. I am giving this clarification as the Finance Secretary of the NSCN/GPRN-K (Khango-Hokato).” He said that he had only handled the collection aspect prior to the incident.
The incident has drawn strong condemnation from civil society. The WSYF termed the abduction a flagrant violation of ceasefire ground rules. "The moment civilians are targeted, all claims of principle, legitimacy or purpose stand completely discredited," the WSYF stated.
Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton also condemned the violence, asserting that abduction is unacceptable and assuring that authorities would ensure accountability.
Responding to official warnings regarding the misuse of the CFSB office, Muru asserted the office operates with Government of India approval and houses only allotted arms and personnel.
