Man held for death threat against Prof. Rosemary, NSCN (IM) denies link

KOHIMA — Dimapur Police have arrested one Walonir Longkumer (38) for allegedly issuing a death threat to prominent activist and retired professor, Dr. Rosemary Dzüvichü, on social media.

Commissioner of Police, Dimapur, Aotula T Imchen, informed on Thursday that the accused is currently in custody while further investigation is underway.

Earlier this week, the accused had reportedly posted a death threat in the Facebook group Unified Nagaland For Christ, targeting Rosemary for her active role in advocating women’s reservation in the state.

Following the incident, the activist lodged a complaint with the Cybercrime Police Station, Kohima, on Wednesday.

Based on the complaint, police identified and apprehended the accused the same day. “Upon receipt of the information, action was initiated whereby the accused individual was identified and apprehended on Sep. 24,” the CP stated.

The complaint was later transferred to Diphupar Police Station, where a case was registered vide Case No. 0058/25 U/S 351 (3)/79 BNS R/w 67/67A IT Act.

Also read: Nagaland: Naga Mothers’ Association, Ao Senden condemn online death threat against Prof. Rosemary Dzüvichü

Police reiterated that all threats to individual safety and security—whether physical or online—would be dealt with stringently under the law. They further cautioned that intimidation and abuse aimed at endangering citizens would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

The public, the police assured, should remain confident that law enforcement agencies will act decisively against such nefarious activities.

Reacting to the arrest, Prof. Rosemary, who also serves as an adviser to the Naga Mothers’ Association, expressed gratitude to the police for their swift action. “I definitely expect a thorough investigation into this whole matter because there is a much larger picture,” she told Eastern Mirror, adding that she deserves to know the truth.

She underscored that no one should be allowed to threaten women activists with abusive or derogatory language. “In this day and age, these are unacceptable criminal actions,” she remarked, stressing that she expects justice not only for herself but also for women across the state.

NSCN (IM) distances itself from accused

Meanwhile, the NSCN (IM) expressed shock and condemnation over the Facebook post, describing the language used against Rosemary as “highly vulgar and profane.” It stated that such abusive remarks went far beyond personal insult, amounting to a direct attack on women’s dignity, modesty, and character.

The NSCN also clarified that accused had no connection with the organisation, despite his attempt to associate himself with it.

“For his recklessness to bring NSCN in bad light, we shall consider deemed necessary to deal with him in befitting manner,” it stated.