Rengma Students’ Union (RSU) has issued a strong condemnation following the “brutal assault, harassment, and extortion” of two unemployed youths from Phenda village, Tseminyu District.
According to RSU president, Wakhanlo Semy and general secretary, Alo Tep, the victims, who earn their livelihood by transporting and selling agricultural produce (Yongchak), were intercepted on the night of March 22 while traveling to Imphal. In the early hours of March 23, between Keithelmanbi and Sapermeina in Kangpokpi district, Manipur, unidentified individuals unlawfully detained them, subjected them to intimidation and physical assault, and coerced them to pay an exorbitant sum.
Despite their inability to meet the unlawful demand, the perpetrators continued the harassment, assaulted them, and robbed them of cash and a mobile phone.
Calling the act “cowardly and inhumane,” the RSU stressed that such incidents threaten the safety and dignity of community members and jeopardize the livelihoods of hardworking youths dependent on trade.
The Union has demanded: immediate identification and arrest of the culprits; a swift, impartial investigation by law enforcement authorities and assurance of safety and security for civilians, particularly traders and daily wage earners, along the affected route.
RSU cautioned that failure to act promptly would compel the Union to initiate measures to safeguard its members. Standing in solidarity with the victims, the Union reaffirmed its commitment to protect the dignity, safety, and livelihood of the Rengma community.
Monday, April 6, 2026