IMPHAL, August 11 MNS\/ NNN: Protests were held today\u00a0in two separate places in Imphal demanding the release of the two abducted officials.
\nTwo officials of Manipur Government\u2019s Horticulture Department were abducted by suspected militants near Kanglatongbi bazaar under Sekmai Police Station on August 8 night.
\nHorticulture Department officials have been identified as Assistant AO Maibam Priyokumar, 56, a resident of Yaiskul Janmasthan in Imphal West district, currently posted as manager at Regional Progeny Orchard, Maram, and Wangkheirakpam Ibopishak, 50, a resident of Nongmeibung in Imphal East district. They have been reportedly abducted\u00a0by suspected Kuki militants, according to police sources.
\nOn Sunday, demanding the release of the two officials, the protestors said for the sake of money\u00a0the people should not give hardship to others.
\nA group of people carried out sit-in-protest at Yaiskul area in Imphal while another group of people protested at Nongmeibung in Imphal East district today.
\nIt can be noted here that the kidnapping took place around 10 pm of Thursday when the duo was about to reach Kanglatombi bazaar. An unspecified number of unknown militants who were heavily armed whisked them away from the spot.
\nThe two officials were travelling in a Chevrolet car heading\u00a0 Imphal when the incident happened, the reports added.
\nThe police reports suggested that an underground group carried out the kidnapping in connection with a monetary demand of Rs 50,000.<\/p>\n\n