Kuki groups condemn arrest of Kuki youtuber in drone recovery case, demand fair probe
Two Kuki organisations- Kuki Youtubers Association (KYSA) and Kuki Film Development Association (KUFIDA) on Saturday condemned the arrest of a Kuki youtuber David Khaigoulen Kipgen in Guwahati for the illegal transaction of drone equipment to be used in Manipur conflict.
The arrest was made by the Special Task Force (STF) of Assam Police based on intelligence input provided by the Central Intelligence that militant groups might procure drones to use in ethnic conflict in Manipur
A team of STF on June 14 arrested David Khaigoulen Kipgen (27) from a vehicle at Sonapur Toll Gate on NH 27 for an unauthorised transaction of drone equipment, which was seized from his vehicle (No AS01FU3927).
Davis is the son of Hensat Kipgen from Gamngai village, Sapormeina Police Station in Kangpokpi district of Manipur.
The police recovered 10 TB30 Intelligent Flight Batteries suspected to be used in drones, cash amounting to Rs 3,40,000, 4 pairs of shoes and one mobile handset from the vehicle.
In a statement here, the Kuki Youtubers Association (KYA) said: “We are deeply concerned and disturbed by the arrest of David Khaigoulen Kipgen, a respected Kuki film director, actor, and active YouTuber. David Khaigoulen Kipgen, who serves as an executive member of our association, was detained under unfounded allegations that the drone equipment he purchased was intended for use in the ongoing Kuki-Meitei conflict in Manipur.”
“David Khaigoulen Kipgen is a well-known figure in the Kuki community, celebrated for his contributions to the arts and his commitment to promoting Kuki culture and stories through various media platforms. His work as a filmmaker and YouTuber has always been focused on creative expression, cultural documentation, and community engagement, and he has consistently advocated for peace and understanding through his content,” the statement said.
“The accusations against Khaigoulen Kipgen are not only baseless but also deeply damaging to his reputation and the broader efforts of the Kuki Youtubers Association. It is important to emphasize that the equipment he acquired was solely to enhance the quality of his productions, and any suggestion that it was to be used for conflict-related activities is entirely false,” the association said.
“We urge the authorities to conduct a fair and transparent investigation into this matter and to release David Khaigoulen Kipgen at the earliest possible opportunity. We stand by Khaigoulen Kipgen and reaffirm our support for his work, which continues to be a source of pride and inspiration for our community,” it also said.
“Furthermore, we call on the media and the public to approach this situation with caution and to refrain from spreading misinformation that could exacerbate tensions. It is crucial that the truth prevails and that individuals like David Khaigoulen Kipgen, who work tirelessly for the betterment of society, are not unjustly targeted,” it further said.
The statement added that the KYA remained committed to fostering a spirit of creativity, unity, and peace within the community and beyond.
Another organisation- Kuki Film Development Association (KUFIDA) also said it was distressed to learn about the arrest of a renowned Kuki film director David Khaigoulen Kipgen by the Assam Police STF team with his equipment on June 14 in Assam for his upcoming projects.
“Every Film director, regardless of its scale has the right to purchase their film equipment, such as a battery for drones anytime anywhere. Khaigoulen Kipgen has directed several Kuki films and music albums. He is also an active member of KUFIDA at present while also serving as finance secretary of the association in the past,” the KUFIDA said.
“The arrest is simply unfounded and the association strongly condemns it. The KUFIDA appealed to the authorities to investigate the matter and release David Khaigoulen Kipgen at the earliest,” it added.
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