The Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) has publicly admitted that six Naga civilians who were taken hostage during the ongoing Naga-Kuki conflict were killed by members of the Kuki-Zo community, describing the act as an emotional response and apologising for the incident.

Addressing a press conference at Churachandpur district headquarters, KZC Chairman Henlienthang Thanglet acknowledged the killing of the six Naga civilians and expressed regret over the incident.

“I admit the Kuki-Zo community made a great mistake in killing the six Kutcha Naga civilians. It was done out of emotion. I strongly criticise it and apologise on behalf of my people,” Thanglet said.

He said the incident had negatively affected the image of the Kuki-Zo community and added that tensions escalated after a conflict triggered by a drunken brawl in Ukhrul earlier this year. Thanglet alleged that 14 Kuki-Zo people were killed and several houses were burnt during the violence, which further fuelled anger and resentment within the community.

The KZC chairman also raised concerns over the alleged denial of access to essential commodities for Kuki residents in some Naga-dominated areas of Ukhrul district and urged the government to ensure the supply of basic necessities.

KZC spokesperson Ginza Vualzong called for an impartial investigation into all incidents related to the conflict, including the killing of the six Naga hostages, the deaths of 14 Kuki civilians, and the burning of Kuki villages.

He also demanded firm action against militant groups involved in attacks on civilians and sought comprehensive investigations into locations suspected of sheltering perpetrators of violence.

The six Naga civilians were abducted from Leilon Vaiphei village in Kangpokpi district on May 13. Their bodies were later recovered on June 10 from the vicinity of a Kuki-Zo village.

The Kuki-Zo Council further urged authorities to reopen blocked routes in Naga-dominated areas and ensure unhindered access to healthcare, food supplies, medicines, fuel and other essential commodities for affected communities.