Manipur: Four Arrested, Including Husband and Mother-in-Law, in Housewife’s Suspicious Death
Manipur Police have arrested four persons, including the husband and mother-in-law of a young housewife, in connection with the suspicious death of a 27-year-old woman in Imphal West district, officials confirmed.
The deceased has been identified as Khaidem (Ongbi Chanambam) Chaoba Devi, a resident of Thiyam Leishangkhong under Wangoi Police Station. She was found dead under unclear and suspicious circumstances on the afternoon of December 27 near her residence. According to police sources, Chaoba Devi had gone missing on the night of December 26, prompting concern among her family members and neighbours.
As part of the initial investigation, police detained her husband, Khaidem Nareshwor (29), son of Ingocha, and her mother-in-law, Khaidem (Ongbi) Indira. Both are residents of Wangoi Mamang Khaidem Leikai in Imphal West district. Their detention followed preliminary inquiries that raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the woman’s disappearance and subsequent death.
The investigation later widened, leading to the arrest of two additional suspects on Sunday. They were identified as Moirangthem Dhanajit (28), a resident of Langathel Bazar who is presently staying at Nongpok Keithelmanbi Awang Leikai, and Sh Kananbala Devi alias Dhaneshwori (41), a resident of Yairipok Wangkhem in Thoubal district. Police said their involvement emerged during the course of the probe.
All four accused were produced before the duty magistrate of Imphal West district and have been remanded to police custody until January 5 to allow further investigation and questioning.
Following the incident, public outrage grew in the area, leading to the formation of a Joint Action Committee (JAC). The committee organised a sit-in protest on December 28 at Iramsiphai Leirak Ashangba Community Hall, demanding the arrest of all individuals involved in what they allege to be the killing of Chaoba Devi.
Addressing the media, JAC convenor S Sanajaoba said the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death strongly suggest foul play. He urged the police to carry out a comprehensive and impartial investigation to ensure justice is delivered without delay. He further stated that the family and the JAC have decided not to claim Chaoba Devi’s body, which is currently kept at the mortuary of RIMS Hospital, Imphal, until those responsible are brought to justice.
Police officials said the investigation is ongoing and assured that all necessary legal steps are being taken to uncover the truth behind the case.
