Dimapur, June 8 (MExN): The Zeliang Youth Organization (ZYO) has strongly condemned an alleged shooting and criminal intimidation incident targeting a Zeliang youth and his companions while they were travelling from Dimapur to Jalukie in the early hours of June 5.
In a statement, the organisation alleged that the victims were returning to Jalukie when an unidentified maroon Alto car began aggressively tailing their vehicle from the DIET Training Centre (Merry-land) area under Chümoukedima district.
According to the ZYO, despite repeatedly giving way to the pursuing vehicle, the occupants of the Alto continued to follow them. The situation allegedly escalated near Pimla, where an individual dressed in military camouflage attempted to intercept the victims' vehicle.
The organisation claimed that between 1:50 a.m. and 2:00 a.m., a gunshot was fired directly at the vehicle. The bullet allegedly penetrated the front door and narrowly missed the occupants.
The victims were reportedly pursued until they managed to take shelter at the Mhainamtsi check gate.
Describing the incident as a serious threat to public safety, the ZYO said the alleged attack was not merely an act of intimidation but a deliberate attempt on the lives of innocent citizens travelling on a public highway.
The organisation expressed concern over the safety of commuters travelling between districts and stated that no individual or group has the right to endanger innocent lives or terrorise citizens.
The ZYO demanded an immediate investigation by the district administrations and law enforcement agencies of Chümoukedima and Peren districts, including the registration of a First Information Report (FIR), identification of the perpetrators and a thorough probe into the incident.
It also called for the immediate arrest of those involved and sought action under relevant provisions of law, including those pertaining to the use of firearms and attempted murder.
Further, the organisation urged the government to enhance night patrolling and strengthen security measures along the Dimapur–Chümoukedima–Jalukie transit corridor to ensure the safety of commuters.
The ZYO expressed solidarity with the victims and their families and appealed to citizens, village councils and civil society organisations along the route to share any information or CCTV footage that could assist in identifying the maroon Alto car allegedly involved in the incident.
The organisation warned that failure to apprehend the culprits within a reasonable period could compel it to undertake democratic forms of protest, while reiterating its demand for justice, accountability and improved road safety.
