3 suspects in killing Naphai village chief arrested

Imphal: Manipur Police has arrested three suspects in connection with the killing of Naphai village chief Jilhem Khongsai.

The 3 suspects have been identified as Jamlal Khongsai, 40, Thongkhohao Khongsai, 37 and Paomang Khongsai, 36, all belonged to Naphai village.

“I congratulate my efficient team of Kangpokpi Police on successfully arresting the prime suspects along with 3 SBBL guns within a very short period of time. A thorough investigation has already been initiated,” chief minister N. Biren Singh said.

In less than 48 hours the three suspects were arrested. Such heinous crime will not be tolerated at all, he added.

The 57 years old village chief was shot dead on Monday night.

Jilhem had issued a notification in May end to prevent poppy cultivation in his area in support of the state government’s initiative against poppy cultivation.

Biren said the killing is not linked with the banning of poppy cultivation.