The basketball community in Nagaland held a candlelight vigil in Kohima seeking justice for Vihozhonu Zao, remembered as a gifted player and inspiring teammate.
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KOHIMA — Nagaland’s basketball community and sympathisers gathered for a candlelight vigil in memory of Vihozhonu Zao, who was found dead under mysterious circumstances in Kohima last Saturday.
Emotions ran high as teammates and friends delivered heartfelt tributes to their late friend and former teammate at the D Khel Basketball Ground Court, Seikhazou, Kohima. The vigil was organised by the Kohima District Basketball Association (KDBA).
KDBA president Khrielasakuo Keretsü recalled the time when Zao represented Kohima and won gold at the Nagaland Olympics 2022. She had also represented Nagaland at the Under-23 National Basketball Championship earlier this year.
“She didn’t just play the game; she was the heart of the game. She was a role model for every kid who watched her play, proving that hard work and a good spirit could take you anywhere. Now the silence of the court is deafening—a testament to the void she has left,” Keretsü said.
“The way she was taken from us was senseless and very cruel; it leaves us with anger and a deep sense of injustice,” he added, urging the law enforcement agencies to ensure that the perpetrators face the harshest punishment under the law.
Her friend Lika Aye also shared a tearful tribute, describing Zao as “not just an athlete but an intelligent student who topped her graduation.”
Zao’s coach, Salew Kadete, speaking on behalf of Team ABC, said she had joined the team in June this year. He remembered her as someone “eager to learn and joyful in exploring the fundamentals of the game.”
Kadete recalled that their practice session on Friday, October 24, had been cancelled due to unfavourable weather conditions. “Zao would usually come even on off days for practice, but that day she didn’t turn up. The next day, I was shocked to learn that she was no more,” he said, remembering her as “a fighter who always stood for what was right.”
KDBA advisor Vimhalie Pienyü appealed to the law enforcement agencies to expedite the investigation and deliver justice at the earliest. He added that KDBA would extend full support and cooperation in the matter.
Representing the bereaved family, Lawrence Solo expressed gratitude to all who attended the vigil for their support and love. The Angami Women Organisation, Suncity Club, and Tseminyu District Basketball Association in their brief addresses demanded swift justice while extending solidarity with the family.
The Nagaland Basketball Association and Kohima District Cricket Association also conveyed condolence messages and called for a speedy investigation.
Various other organisations and sports associations from Nagaland and across the Northeast extended their solidarity.
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