DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 2 (MExN): Former Defence Kilonser & UT1 Supervisor of the NSCN (R), Khekato Kinny today issued a statement refuting allegations that he was involved in the killing of Lt Colonel Toshe Yeptho of the NSCN (IM) during a firing incident in Dimapur on August 16.
“I once again reaffirmed that I was not involved in the murder case of Lt Col Toishe Yeptho,” Kinny said in his statement.
Kinny, who was terminated from service by the NSCN (R) on August 28, said “it is very unfortunate and unprecedented which led the situation into a very ugly turn which ultimately took precious life where I also sincerely extend my condolence and share my grief to the grieving family members.”
Kinny stated that he was “shocked” when the NSCN (R) issued the termination notice “when the case is still under investigation by law enforcing agency as well as all respective organisations.”
“As of now I am out of station for treatment of my knee injury during the firing incident that took place at my residence on August 20. The NSCN/GPRN (R) government should have set up inquiry committee and probed the case and dug out the truth; however, without taking up any interrogation or confessional statement from me, how could the government accuse or implicate me in the crime without any substantial evidence,” he asked.
He further appealed that the “NSCN/GPRN (R) government or any official competent authority must give me scope to prove my innocence where I demand free and fair trial.” Kinny further stated that the NSCN (R) government “should have not issued such blind statement before ascertaining factual investigation and penalising an innocent person is not at all justified.”
He meanwhile informed that “the real culprits have been arrested after proper investigation by the investigating agency and the persons are in judicial custody.”
“Therefore, it is so unrealistic and impractical to put my name and implicate me on the crime committed without knowing the truth whereas, I also expect justice through free and fair trial,” Kinny added.
