The Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long expresses deep shock over the brutal ambush on the church leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association (TBA) today, 13th May 2026, which resulted in the cold-blooded murder of three Christian leaders- Reverend Vumthung Sitlhou, Pastor Kaigoulun Lhouvum and Pastor Paogoulen Sitlhou, and left several others grievously injured. The Tangkhul community mourns the loss and empathizes with the bereaved families, having endured similar brutality ourselves less than a month ago.
The press communique of TNL WC stated that, “we must remind the general public that the ambush took place between Kotzim and Kotlen in Kangpokpi, both of which are Kuki settlements. It is irresponsible for any organizations to jump to conclusions at every opportunity to play the blame game and attempt to further fracture the fragile harmony that still exists among the tribes. Making any allegations against any group or tribes without proof or evidence, especially when the ambush occurred within Kuki-inhabited areas, is highly condemnable.
“We further condemn the senseless abduction of twenty innocent Naga civilians from Konsakhul following the ambush. Such harassment of innocent civilians has, unfortunately, become a recurring pattern.
“We therefore urge the responsible parties to release the hostages unconditionally and cease inflicting lifelong trauma upon innocent civilians. Such senseless acts have no place in a civilized society.
“The State government must also stop being a mute spectator to this unending cycle of violence and take immediate steps to restore peace and order. Our lives cannot be used as pawns for political gain. May peace prevail” added the statement issued by the Media Cell, Working Committee, TNL.
