Justice Songkhupchung Serto, Chairperson of the Nagaland State Human Rights Commission accompanied by R Nzanbemo Lotha Member, staff of the commission officials and District Administration visited Zunheboto Police Station on July 25. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | July 25
Justice Songkhupchung Serto, Chairperson of the Nagaland State Human Rights Commission (NSHRC), visited Zunheboto Police Station on July 25 for spot verification in connection with Case No. 25/2025.
He was accompanied by R Nzanbemo Lotha Member, staff of the commission officials and District Administration as part of the ongoing inquiry into the custodial death of a 52-year-old man, Toheku.
"The purpose of the visit was to follow up on the case. We came to inspect the police station and the lock-up to understand the facts and circumstances under which Toheku died while in police custody," Justice Serto told the media.
According to the NSHRC, the incident traces back to an alleged attempt to murder Lozheto Awomi, 85, of Yezami Village, which occurred on April 26. An FIR related to the incident was registered at Zunheboto Police Station on May 10. On the same day, one suspect, Ato Vikiye, was arrested, and the following day, Toheku was also taken into custody.
Tragically, on May 16, Toheku died while in lock-up. The NSHRC received an immediate report from Dr. Kupe Kapfo, SP Zunheboto, on May 17, prompting the Commission to initiate an inquiry.
"Under Article 21 of the Constitution of India, every human being has the right to life. It is the duty of the state to ensure the safety and protection of its citizens. If the state fails in this duty, we are empowered to recommend appropriate compensation. That is the purpose of our visit to ensure justice and accountability," said the Chairperson.
An FIR regarding the custodial death has also been registered, and police have reportedly completed their investigation, submitting a final report to the court.
However, the NSHRC’s independent inquiry is still in its initial phase. Justice Serto confirmed that certified copies of necessary documents have been collected from the SP and that witness statements will begin to be recorded from August 13.
“The inquiry will take some time. Witnesses need to travel from various locations; some are posted in Zunheboto, while others have been transferred elsewhere. Therefore, recording all statements in a single day is not feasible,” he explained.
The Commission has also sought a comprehensive report from the Director General of Police (DGP), which has led to some delay.
“Our final report will be made public after the inquiry is completed. It will depend on the statements recorded and the findings. All our reports are published on our official website,” Justice Serto assured.
The inquiry is expected to take at least two to three months.
