The Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) has strongly condemned the abduction and physical assault of Ato Kukau (Village Chief) Kiyeto Zhimomi of Vikuho Village and has extended its unwavering support and solidarity to the Western Sumi Hoho (WSH), Western Sumi Kukami Hoho, and the Western Sumi Youth Front over their firm ultimatum issued against the NSCN/GPRN (Khango–Vusshe) group.

In a strongly worded statement, the DUCCF denounced the abduction and assault reportedly carried out by cadres of the NSCN (Khango–Hokato) faction at Mishikito Village around 3:00 pm, describing the incident as a barbaric, lawless and deeply disturbing act. The Federation stated that the attack was not just an assault on an individual but a direct affront to traditional institutions, village authority and the collective dignity of the Naga people.

In a statement issued by Kevipietsu Savino, Information and Publicity Secretary, DUCCF, the Federation expressed serious concern that such acts of violence run contrary to the collective aspirations of the Nagas for peace, reconciliation and harmonious coexistence. It stressed that at a time when society is striving to move forward in unity and stability, the use of force and intimidation only brings shame to the land and erodes the foundations of peace painstakingly built over the years.

Reaffirming its commitment to peace and justice, the DUCCF strongly denounced all forms of violence and lawlessness that threaten the social fabric and democratic values of Naga society. It demanded an immediate and impartial investigation into the incident, identification of those responsible and the delivery of swift and uncompromising justice to the victim.

The DUCCF also expressed its unwavering solidarity with Ato Kukau Kiyeto Zhimomi, the Vikuho Village Council and the people of Vikuho Village, reiterating its resolve to safeguard the rights, security and dignity of every citizen.

Calling upon all stakeholders to exercise restraint and respect customary institutions, the federation urged collective responsibility to uphold peace, justice and communal harmony, reiterating that unity remains the only path forward for a peaceful and dignified Naga society.

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DAYO calls for strong action to ensure public safety

The Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation (DAYO) has expressed its strongest condemnation over the abduction of Kiyeto Zhimomi, Head GB of Vikuho Village and a renowned businessman, from Mishikito Village under Chümoukedima district on January 19, reportedly by cadres of the NSCN (K) Khango–Vusshe group.

In a statement, DAYO said it was deeply disturbed that such an unfortunate incident occurred at a time when the people of Nagaland are yearning for peace, stability and progress. The organization stated that abduction of any citizen is not only a grave criminal offence but also an inhumane act of intimidation that directly threatens public safety and undermines the dignity of society. Such incidents, it added, create fear psychosis among the public and seriously disrupt social harmony.

While expressing relief over the safe release of Kiyeto Zhimomi, DAYO asserted that such unlawful acts can never be justified under any circumstances. The organization termed the incident a serious warning sign for the overall security environment in the state and said it sends a wrong message to the business community and ordinary citizens who are striving to earn an honest livelihood and contribute to the economy and development of Nagaland.

DAYO strongly appealed to all concerned to refrain from abduction, coercion, intimidation or any form of unlawful activities, stating that such practices have no place in a civilized and progressive society and only bring shame, suffering and instability to the people.

The organization also urged the Government and law-enforcing agencies to take serious note of the incident and ensure that peace and public safety are maintained, while taking necessary measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future. It further called upon all right-thinking citizens and civil society organizations to stand united against acts that disturb public peace and threaten the wellbeing of the people.

Reaffirming its commitment to peace, safety and harmonious living, DAYO appealed for an environment where every citizen can live without fear and pursue their livelihood with dignity and security.