Govindas Konthoujam on May 14 assured that the perpetrators behind the recent ambush attacks in Manipur would be arrested “as soon as possible,” while expressing concern that certain elements may be trying to obstruct peace in the state.

The Home Minister made the remarks during his visit to the mortuary of Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences, where he met the family members of the victim killed in the Joujangtek ambush in Noney district.

The attack, which took place on May 13 near Joujangtek village, left one person dead and two others injured after suspected armed militants allegedly opened fire on a vehicle returning from Imphal.

Konthoujam extended condolences to the bereaved family and assured them that the government would make all efforts to identify and arrest those responsible.

Addressing reporters on the sidelines of the visit, the Home Minister strongly condemned both the Joujangtek attack and the separate ambush in Kangpokpi district that killed three members of the Thadou community.

On being asked whether the Joujangtek case would be handed over to the National Investigation Agency, Konthoujam said the government would examine the matter.

The Home Minister also referred to reports of civilians from both the Kuki and Naga communities being taken hostage following the Kangpokpi attack.

According to him, 38 people belonging to both communities were allegedly abducted on Wednesday, and political leaders along with civil society organisations were currently engaged in efforts to secure their release.

He added that the Manipur government has informed the Union Ministry of Home Affairs through the Intelligence Bureau regarding the developments.

“People should cooperate in rejecting violence. There is suspicion that some people do not want peace and progress in Manipur. Such elements need to be identified,” the Home Minister said.