Chesam Abdul Kadir, 29, was found buried near a riverbank after going missing for a week. Preliminary reports suggest he died during a violent “interrogation” by vigilante members of Arambai Tenggol, sparking public outrage and curfew measures.
BY PC Bureau
In a deeply disturbing development, 29-year-old Chesam Abdul Kadir, alias Achouba—a differently-abled man from Paobitek Mayai Leikai in Imphal West—was found dead, his body buried along the Shamurou Naorem Nambulmapal riverbank under the jurisdiction of Wangoi Police Station. Kadir, who had been missing since the night of June 10, was allegedly abducted and murdered. Nine suspects, including six members of the Meitei socio-cultural group Arambai Tenggol, have been arrested in connection with the crime.
Manipur Police exhumed Kadir’s body on Tuesday in the presence of an executive magistrate, a forensic team, and his family members. The confirmation of his death has triggered widespread anger and protests across Imphal West, with residents demanding justice for Kadir, a mentally challenged member of the Meitei Pangal (Muslim) community.
Arambai Tenggol Under Scrutiny
Investigations have revealed a troubling link to Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei outfit frequently accused of vigilante actions amidst Manipur’s ongoing ethnic tensions. Those arrested include Longjam Henson alias Naocha Meitei (24), Thounaojam Ashok Singh (20), Huidrom Shyamsunder Singh (30), Huidrom Somokanta Singh, Huidrom Dipak Singh, and Thingujam Ranjit Singh—reportedly active members of the group. Three others—Heikrujam Prafulo Singh (35), Heikrujam Premchand alias Puremba (28), and Sapam Dayani Devi (42)—have also been detained. Police have seized five vehicles allegedly used in the crime, including three Gypsies, a DI Pick-up, and a scooter.
Tension flared up following the confirmed death of Mr. Chesam Abdul Kadir who was suspected of being abducted by the private militia of @NBirenSingh, #Arambai_Tenggol.
Meanwhile, a public meeting of the minority Muslim (Meitei Pangal) appeals to the @HMOIndia to declare… pic.twitter.com/KgwWJ2oYFo
— Dr. Lamtinthang Haokip (@DrLamtinthangHk) June 17, 2025
READ: Adani’s Kokrajhar Thermal Plant Raise Alarm: Is Tribal Land up for Grab in India?
Preliminary findings suggest Kadir was abducted from Yumnam Huidrom Makha Leikai, near the Mayai Lambi College gate, following accusations of attempted theft. During interrogation, some suspects reportedly admitted that Kadir died while being “questioned” by Arambai Tenggol members. However, the exact cause and circumstances of his death are still under investigation. Allegations of the group operating as a private militia have gained traction on social media, though such claims remain unverified.
Protests and Administrative Response
The killing has triggered protests led by a Joint Action Committee (JAC), which staged demonstrations near Wangoi Police Station. Tensions flared into stone-pelting, prompting police to use tear gas to disperse the crowd. Internet services have been suspended in five districts to curb unrest, while a curfew was imposed in Bishnupur.
The Manipur Meitei Pangal Welfare Organisation, through its Secretary General Firoz Khan, strongly condemned the “heinous act” and demanded exemplary punishment for those responsible.
Police have registered a case and assured swift action. All nine suspects are in custody and will remain detained until June 23 or 28, depending on the individual cases.
Authorities have appealed for calm and urged the public not to spread misinformation, emphasizing the seriousness of the investigation.
