Organisations condemn murder of 22-year-old woman in Kohima

DIMAPUR — Multiple organisations have condemned the brutal murder of 22-year-old Vihozhonu Zao, daughter of late Keneithüto Zao, a resident of Old Ministers Hill, Kohima, whose body was discovered on the morning of October 25.

The incident has drawn widespread outrage and calls for justice from various organisations across Nagaland.

NSCW: The Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW) strongly condemned the inhuman and brutal murder of Vihozhonu Zao, terming it “an affront to humanity and the sanctity of life”.

In a statement, the Commission stated that it had taken suo motu cognisance of the case and is closely monitoring all developments. It appealed to the law enforcement agencies to expedite the investigation and ensure that the perpetrator(s) are brought to justice without delay.

The Commission further sought the cooperation of the colony residents and the general public in assisting the investigating authorities to ensure a fair, transparent, and swift process of justice. It reiterated its solidarity with the victim’s family, assuring them of every possible support in their pursuit of justice.

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NBA: The Nagaland Basketball Association (NBA) expressed deep shock and outrage over the “brutal and senseless murder” of Zao, describing her as “a rising star of Nagaland women’s basketball” and “a symbol of hope, discipline, and determination”.

Zao had represented the state at the U23 National Basketball Championship held in Guwahati earlier in 2025.

The NBA said the act was a devastating loss to the sporting community and urged law enforcement authorities and state leadership to ensure that justice was swift and uncompromising.

“We urge the government to ensure that justice is swift and uncompromising, sending a clear and resolute message that such barbaric acts will not be tolerated in our society,” the statement read.

The association reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the dignity and safety of athletes in Nagaland and said Vihozhonu’s legacy would live on through the inspiration she provided to others.

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KDBA: The Kohima District Basketball Association (KDBA) also expressed shock and sadness over the murder of its member, stating, "Ms. Zao was a dedicated, disciplined, and hard-working player—a true team member who consistently gave her best while representing the district."

The KDBA "vehemently condemns this brutal and lawless act" and urged the authorities to expedite the investigation to ensure the perpetrators face the full force of the law.

It further called upon the state government and law enforcement agencies to implement measures to prevent such tragedies in the future and appealed to the public, civil society organisations, and citizens to unite against injustice and work collectively for peace.

The association extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and pledged its full support during this time of grief.

WAYO: The Western Angami Youth Organisation (WAYO) also strongly condemned the “brutal and inhuman murder” of Zao.

Expressing deep sorrow and outrage, it extended condolences to the bereaved family and called the act “a grave violation of human rights and an affront to the values of humanity, justice, and peace”.

The organisation urged law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and ensure that the perpetrators were identified and brought to justice at the earliest. It expressed solidarity with the victim’s family and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting safety, dignity, and justice for all.

SASU: The Southern Angami Students’ Union (SASU) described the murder as “brutal” and “inhumane”.

The union said it was shocked and outraged by the crime and called upon the state government and law enforcement authorities to conduct a “thorough and transparent investigation” and ensure that the perpetrator(s) faced “the full force of law”.

The union further appealed to civil organisations and the general public to join hands in demanding justice and to work together to prevent such crimes in future. SASU expressed solidarity with the family and friends of the deceased, assuring them of its unwavering support and stating that it “will not rest until justice is served”.

KYO: The Kigwema Youth Organisation (KYO) also condemned the murder, describing it as a “cold-blooded act”. It stated that the “brutal taking of human life is a morally reprehensible act that flagrantly violates fundamental principles of human dignity, compassion and respect.”

The KYO urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is served at the earliest. It extended heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family and prayed for strength in their time of sorrow.