Kohima, November 7 (MExN): Naga civil society organisations have continued to express deep shock and outrage over the murder of a 22-year-old young basketball player in Kohima. The victim, identified by police as Vihozhonu Zao, was found dead on October 25.
The organisations have demanded swift and uncompromising justice for the victim, while lauding the Nagaland Police and the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Kohima for their prompt and proactive investigation into the case. The Kohima Police on November 5 announced the arrest of the prime suspect in connection with the case.
Kohima Village Youth Organisation (KVYO): Stating that the SIT’s breakthrough via professionalism, commitment and efficiency has brought clarity to ‘brutal and cold-blooded murder,’ the KVYO urged that the accused be tried under relevant sections of the law and be awarded the maximum and most stringent punishment permissible under the legal framework of the nation.
Crimes of such horrific nature have no place in a peaceful and civilised society, it held, further contending that such individuals must be dealt with firmly to deter similar crimes in the future.
The KVYO further appealed the authorities that the judicial proceedings be carried out in a time-bound, transparent and uncompromising manner, so that justice is neither delayed nor diluted.
It also extended solidarity and prayers to the bereaved family and assured its full support as the family navigates the painful journey.
The KVYO encouraged the public to remain united, vigilant and cooperative with law-enforcement agencies in ensuring a safe and secure society for all.
Southern Angami Public Organization (SAPO): The SAPO condemned the incident as a “heinous and barbaric” murder while expressing shock and unequivocal outrage over the killing of a vibrant, talented, and promising individual.
“This brutal act is an unforgivable violation of human dignity and a devastating loss to us all,” it added.
The perpetrator should be held accountable and convicted to the fullest extent of the law, the SAPO stated, calling for swift justice.
It further stated that the incident highlights the urgent need to nurture respect for human life and dignity within families, communities, and the broader society.
To this end, the SAPO called for renewing the society’s collective effort and unwavering resolve to promote peace, foster compassion, and tirelessly work to prevent such atrocities from occurring again.
The organisation also called upon all citizens to unite in the “pursuit of justice, peace, and humanity” to safeguard the “moral integrity” of society.
Western Sumi Hoho (WSH): Such a horrific act has deeply shaken the community and stands as a grave crime against humanity, the WSH stated.
Condemning the same in the strongest possible terms, it demanded that the accused face the full force of the law.
“Justice must be swift and uncompromising; no leniency should be shown for such a cold-blooded crime,” it stated.
Expressing firm solidarity with the bereaved family, the WSH called upon the citizens to remain united and cooperate with the authorities until justice is fully delivered.
Association of Kohima Municipal Wards Council (AKMWC): The AKMWC, while lauding the Kohima Police for its professional investigation into the “cold-blooded murder,” urged the SIT to “leave no stone unturned” to ensure the perpetrators are exposed and awarded stringent punishment as per the law.
The council also expressed “serious concern” over adoption practices by many Nagas, calling the case a “big eye-opener,” and called upon citizens to “think twice before adopting non-indigenous Nagas.”
Furthermore, the AKMWC reiterated its demand for the state government to establish a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Kohima at the earliest to aid in the prompt and professional investigation of crimes.
Yimkhiung Youth Organisation (YYO): The YYO “unequivocally demanded capital punishment for the perpetrator” and called upon police and judicial authorities to ensure the accused is “held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
Expressing solidarity with the victim's family, the YYO reiterated its “unwavering commitment to justice and the fight against crimes that endanger our youth and community.”
