Renowned Manipuri singer and lyricist, Akhu Chingangbam, was reportedly abducted by unidentified gunmen from his residence in the Khurai area of Imphal East district on Friday, according to his family. However, he was later released unharmed at a location approximately 20 km away from his house. In a Facebook post written in Manipuri, Akhu stated, 'I was not abducted by anyone; I am safely at home.'

The incident unfolded early on Friday morning when a few armed men forcibly entered Chingangbam's residence and took him to a location in Imphal West district, as reported by a close relative of the artist. The police confirmed the abduction but refrained from divulging specific details.

"We have received information that this person (Chingangbam) was abducted by unidentified persons. And later, we received information that he has been released unharmed," stated a police officer without providing further details.

While the motive behind the abduction remains unclear, Chingangbam's relative expressed concern over the day's events. Notably, no ransom demands were made by the abductors, and the artist's family has not lodged a police complaint at this time.