Imphal, July 15 -- The Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), the apex body of the Tangkhul Nagas, has given the Manipur government a 24-hour ultimatum to release four villagers arrested during a joint security operation in Kamjong district, warning of civil unrest if its demand is not met.

The four villagers from Sikibung village-Yaoreingam Lungleng (21), Wungphayo Kasar (24), Ninglum Awungshi Shimray (26) and Vareiyo Lungleng, were detained on July 14 during a combing operation. According to the TNL, they are being held at Porompat Police Station in Imphal East district.

In a statement, the TNL condemned the operation, alleging that security forces targeted villagers while failing to act against armed groups operating in neighbouring areas. It als...