NSCN(IM) cadres release candidate

Imphal, Feb 19 (UNI) The NSCN(IM) cadres released the abducted Independent candidate from Tamenglong Khanthuanang Panmei district yesterday, according to police sources here today.

However, a defence spokesman said that the army had intervened for the release of the candidate. The NSCN (IM) is having a truce with the Centre in veiw of the ongoing peace talks.

The outfit's cadres had also snatched away the arms from the Mr Panmei's security guards on February 17.

Altogether 16 weapons including one licensed .22 pistol and three double barrel guns were taken away by the abductors, police said.

Meanwhile, a rally was taken out today at Chandel district to demand non-interference of various organisations in the third phase of elections to be held in 12 Assembly segments of Chandel, Tamenglong, Churachandpur districts and Jiribam sub division on February 23.

UNI