With 10 arrests made—including seven Arambai Tenggol members—the investigation into Md Abdul Kadir’s murder is revealing disturbing details about vigilante violence and rising lawlessness in Manipur.
BY PC Bureau
June 22, 2025— In a major breakthrough, Manipur Police on Sunday arrested the prime accused in the murder of Md Chesam Abdul Kadir, a differently-abled man whose brutal killing sparked statewide protests and public outrage.
The Police has identified the arrested person as Longjam Khaba Singh, also known as “Boi”, a 35-year-old senior commander of the controversial vigilante group Arambai Tenggol. According to an official police statement, he was apprehended from Mongsangei Makha Leikai Arubam Leikai, near Puthiba Laibung Complex in Imphal West.
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Khaba Singh is accused of leading the group responsible for abducting and killing Md Abdul Kadir, a resident of Paobitek Mayai Leikai, whose decomposed body was recovered from a riverbank in Shamurou Naorem Makha Leikai on June 17, nearly a week after he was reported missing.
The main accused, Longjam Khaba Singh @ Boi (35), of Yumnam Huidrom Thiyam Leishangkhong, a commander of Arambai Tenggol, who was involved in the murder of Md Chesam Abdul Kadir of Paobitek Mayai Leikai, has been arrested today from a place at Mongsangei Makha Leikai Arubam… pic.twitter.com/ahVgeImUmT
— Manipur Police (@manipur_police) June 22, 2025
Manipur Police confirmed that a total of 10 individuals have been arrested so far in connection with the case — seven members of Arambai Tenggol and three civilians. The arrests followed an intensive investigation and multiple search operations across Imphal West and adjoining areas.
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The murder case has drawn sharp attention due to the alleged involvement of a prominent armed group, and has reignited debate over the unchecked activities of vigilante outfits in the state. Several civil society groups have condemned the killing, demanding that Arambai Tenggol be declared a terrorist organization.
The investigation is ongoing, with police continuing to pursue leads and coordinate with forensic teams to build a watertight case. Authorities have also assured the public that all those responsible will be brought to justice.
