Dimapur bids farewell to outgoing CP Kevithuto Sophie

A farewell programme in honour of the outgoing Commissioner of Police (CP), Dimapur, Kevithuto Sophie, was held Thursday at Rhododendron Hall, Police Complex, Chümoukedima.
Sophie, who served as CP for two years and nine months, oversaw policing in Dimapur, Niuland, and Chümoukedima during his tenure.
In his farewell address, Sophie downplayed the praises he received from colleagues and civil society organisations, stating that he did not deserve such accolades. Urging all to carry out their responsibilities sincerely, he said: “We should do our duty regardless of whether it is acknowledged. Our conscience should be our ultimate judge.”
Highlighting Dimapur’s cosmopolitan character, Sophie called on both police personnel and citizens to shun favouritism and divisive “isms” while striving for a better society. He remarked that those unable to contribute positively should, at the very least, avoid causing harm.
He also underscored that progress was not the sole responsibility of the police or administration, but a collective duty of every citizen to uphold truth and justice.
Touching on economic concerns, Sophie expressed worry over the growing practice of closing shops on Sundays, warning that such restrictions were driving businesses out of Dimapur. “In the name of Naga nationalism, we are destroying our economy,” he said, lamenting that Nagas were chasing away development and opportunities.
Sophie also acknowledged the role of the media, describing it as a powerful tool that could either solve or aggravate problems. He urged the media fraternity to report facts, provide constructive criticism and avoid sensationalism.
He expressed his gratitude to police personnel, district administrations, CSOs, and the public for their cooperation during his tenure and appealed for continued support under the leadership of the new CP. “If Dimapur is clean, 90% of Nagaland will be clean,” he stated, while urging stakeholders to extend the same cooperation to his successor.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Hq) Y. Ruth Muru, invocation was offered by pastor Rakhu Levi (PBC Dimapur), and vote of thanks was delivered by women pastor Nukshila Aying Doulo (PBC Dimapur).
Short speeches were delivered by DCP (Crime) Khekali Y. Sema, DCP Niuland Manish Bhartiya, Deputy Commissioners of Dimapur, Niuland and Chümoukedima, and representatives of Naga Council Dimapur (NCD), Western Sumi Hoho, Dimapur GBs Federation, Muslim Council Dimapur (MCD), and Chakhro Angami Kuda Union.
The programme was attended by police personnel, DUCCF, DNSU, BAN, tribal bodies, student unions, and other community leaders.