ZUF Condemns Killing of Church Leaders, Alleges NSCN-IM Operatives Behind Attack

The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has strongly condemned the killing of three Kuki civilians, including church leaders, in an ambush on a civilian vehicle between Kotzim and Kotlen, alleging that operatives of NSCN-IM were responsible for the attack while falsely using the name “ZUF Kamson Group.”

In a statement issued today, the ZUF described the incident as a barbaric and cowardly act, calling it an unforgivable crime against humanity and a serious threat to peace, coexistence, and mutual respect among neighbouring communities.

The outfit clarified that there is only one legitimate ZUF and denied the existence of any faction called “ZUF Kamson” or any other splinter group. It accused NSCN-IM of deliberately misusing the ZUF name to mislead the public, tarnish the image of the Zeliangrong people, and create ethnic tension in the region.

According to the statement, the ZUF had recently been reaching out to village authorities, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), church leaders, women leaders, youth leaders, and intellectuals for a peace meeting aimed at promoting harmony and communal understanding in Zeliangrong areas.

The group further alleged that NSCN-IM had issued directives on May 2 and May 4 asking people to boycott the ZUF’s peace initiative, which it claimed reflected a deliberate attempt to obstruct peace efforts and provoke hostility.

Condemning the targeting of civilians, particularly church leaders and unarmed commuters, the ZUF said such acts of violence were savage, inhuman, and unacceptable under any circumstances. It demanded that those responsible for the killings be brought to justice.

Reaffirming its commitment to peace and communal harmony, the ZUF also warned NSCN-IM against using its name for what it termed ulterior motives and for spreading fear and ethnic animosity.

The organisation extended condolences to the bereaved families and appealed to all communities to remain calm, maintain restraint, and reject attempts to incite communal violence.