Condemning what they described as a dangerous slide into criminality, the Western Sümi Hoho (WSH) and the Western Sümi Kukami Hoho (WSKH) have jointly denounced the rising incidents of kidnapping, abduction and ransom-driven intimidation in Naga society, asserting that such acts have “no place in any political cause” and threaten social order and communal values.
In a joint condemnation statement, the Sümi apex bodies specifically condemned the abduction of Mr. Kiyeto Zhimomi, Head GB of Vikuho Village, allegedly carried out by NSCN/GPRN (Khango/Hokato Vusshe). They termed the targeting of a village authority and local entrepreneur as a grave provocation and a disturbing reflection of lawlessness.
Although the victim was later released, the organisations stressed that the crime itself remains serious and wholly unacceptable, and affirmed that the matter would be pursued through customary, civil and legal mechanisms, warning that all individuals or groups found guilty would be held fully accountable.
“The abduction and intimidation of Naga entrepreneurs and community leaders for ransom constitute a shameful descent into predatory criminality against one’s own people,” the statement said, adding that any group invoking the Naga political cause while terrorising civilians “forfeits all moral, ethical and political legitimacy.”
Echoing similar concerns, the Western Naga Youth Front (WNYF) also strongly condemned the abduction of Zhimomi, who was reportedly abducted from the Mishikito area under Chümoukedima on January 19, and later released after physical assault and forced agreement.
The WNYF said the incident was not an isolated case, and warned that continued inaction by law enforcement agencies, the government administration and the ceasefire monitoring mechanisms could further embolden anti-social elements.
“For over a year, we have repeatedly demanded preventive measures and strict accountability,” the youth body stated, calling the continued silence and inaction of authorities a serious failure of duty.
Warning of wider consequences, the WNYF said prolonged lawlessness would severely damage peace, public confidence and social stability, cautioning that “the patience of the people must not be taken for granted.”
The youth organisation demanded the immediate arrest of all culprits involved and swift prosecution, and appealed to civil society organisations, village councils, youth bodies and all stakeholders to unite against the culture of abduction, illegal taxation and extortion.
Meanwhile, the Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation (DAYO) also strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a grave criminal act and inhumane intimidation that threatens public safety, social harmony, and the confidence of the business community. DAYO expressed relief at Zhimomi’s release but stressed that such unlawful acts can never be justified, calling the incident a warning sign for the overall security environment in the State.
All three organisations united in calling on civil society, village councils, youth bodies, and law enforcement agencies to stand against abduction, coercion, intimidation, and illegal activities, warning that Naga society “will not be held hostage by guns or ransom” (WSH/WSKH). The Sümi bodies further stated that “any individual or group that invokes the Naga political cause while terrorizing civilians for monetary gain stands exposed as criminals and irrevocably forfeits all moral, ethical and political legitimacy.”
The WNYF emphasized that “the patience of the people must not be taken for granted,” while DAYO stressed that peace, safety, and harmonious living must be upheld so every citizen can carry out their livelihood with dignity.