CBI team reaches Imphal to probe killing of 2 Manipur students

A CBI team led by Special Director Ajay Bhatnagar has reached Imphal to probe the "kidnapping and killing" of two students, Phijam Hemjit (20) and Hijam Linthoingambi (17), who had gone missing on July 6. The news of their disappearance sparked widespread concern after photos of their bodies surfaced on social media. The CBI's primary focus is on identifying the crime scene, recovering the bodies, and bringing the culprits to justice.

The team is set to hold meetings with senior police and government officials and gather local intelligence regarding this tragic incident. This investigation was initiated after the state government, in consultation with the home ministry, referred the matter to the CBI.

Specialized officers, including experts in special crime, crime scene recreation, interrogation, and technical surveillance, have been mobilized for this purpose. The team will also include professionals from the CBI's elite Central Forensic Science Laboratory.


Previously, the students' whereabouts were unknown, and their mobile phones had been switched off. The last location of their mobile phones was traced to Lamdan, near the winter flower tourist spot in Churachandpur district.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, in response to the distressing news, stated, "I want to assure the people of the state that both the state and central government are closely working together to nab the perpetrators." He emphasized the commitment of authorities to swiftly resolve the matter, mentioning his constant communication with Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah.

In response to the viral photos of the deceased students, security personnel have been placed on high alert, and additional measures have been taken to prevent any untoward incidents. The government has promised that "swift and decisive action will be taken against all those involved in the kidnapping and killing of Phijam Hemjit and Hijam Linthoingambi."

(With inputs from PTI)