No breakthrough yet in Longleng hit-and-run; rally called on October 27

DIMAPUR — Investigation into the tragic hit-and-run case that claimed the lives of two individuals from Aoching village in Longleng district is yet to yield any arrests or lead to the recovery of the vehicle involved.

Superintendent of Police, Longleng, Yanger Jamir, informed Eastern Mirror that the investigation officially began on the morning of October 26, as officers were unable to begin inquiries the previous day due to public unrest following the incident.

Jamir said that no arrests have been made so far, citing the absence of eyewitnesses. He explained that on October 25, police personnel were primarily engaged in controlling the angry mob.

According to preliminary findings, the incident occurred around 10.30 am, with the first report reaching the police at approximately 10.50 am. The situation in Longleng town remained tense until late evening, with police managing to restore calm only around 10 pm on October 25.

Also read: Two men killed in suspected hit-and-run in Longleng

Later that night, at around 10.30 pm, the police and district administration—accompanied by the victims’ family members and representatives of civil society organisations—transported the bodies to Aoching village, arriving there around 11.30 pm.

The SP said that several vehicles, including a Mahindra Bolero, were damaged by the enraged crowd.

The victims’ family members lodged an FIR at the Longleng Police Station on October 25. The SP said that investigation is ongoing and no one has been apprehended yet as there are no witnesses and no individual has come forward to admit involvement.

Jamir assured that the situation has since stabilised, crediting volunteers from the Phom People’s Council (PPC), Phom Students’ Union (PSU), and the village council for helping maintain peace.

He also acknowledged the cooperation of the victims’ families and civil society organisations in restoring order.

While efforts continue to identify and apprehend the culprit, Jamir said that it was too early to indicate when an arrest might be made, as the investigation has only just commenced.

Meanwhile, in a joint public statement, the Phom Peoples’ Council (PPC), Phomla Hoichem (PH), and Phom Students’ Conference (PSC) have announced a solidarity rally on October 27 at 10 am at local ground, Longleng, to honour the lives lost and demand justice.

As a mark of respect, all business establishments, educational institutions, schools, and colleges across Longleng district will remain closed during the rally.

The three organisations urged all citizens and students from Class IX and above to participate peacefully and ensure the dignified conduct of the programme, expressing unity and collective grief over the tragedy.