Nagaland October 24 murder: Porütso Khel invokes customary law

In the aftermath of the brutal murder of 22-year-old Vihozhonu Zao on October 24, the Porütso Khel community in Kohima invoked its customary law, demanding capital punishment for the accused, identified as Samuel, who has reportedly confessed to the crime before police.
On November 8, some members of the Khel vandalised the residence of the accused at Old Minister’s Hill, Kohima. Locals described the incident as a spontaneous outburst of anger and grief following the revelation of the murder, which has left the community deeply shaken.
Members of the Porütso Khel said murder is considered a grave taboo and a serious violation under their customary law.
As part of customary action, the Khel has reportedly ostracised Vihozhonu’s aunt and grandmother from the village for seven years.
However, the involvement of the two women in the case is yet to be established by the investigating authorities.
The Khel also clarified that Samuel is not a biological member of the Zao family but an adopted son, and therefore should not be associated with the Zao lineage.
Authorities have yet to issue any official statement regarding the vandalism or further developments in the investigation.