Imphal, May 16: Thousands of people from the Kuki-Zo community on Saturday participated in a massive protest rally at Motbung in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district as the 48-hour shutdown called by Kuki Inpi Manipur entered its first day.

The protest, organised under the banner of the Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), was held to demand the release of Kuki-Zo civilians allegedly being held hostage following recent incidents of violence in the state, besides seeking justice for the three church leaders killed in Kangpokpi district earlier this week.

Protesters marched from Motbung Bazaar to Charhajare carrying placards and raising slogans demanding security for civilians and strict action against those responsible for the killings and attacks.

The protesters urged the Centre to initiate a high-level probe into the recent ambush incidents and ensure protection for vulnerable villages in the hill districts.

The protest comes amid heightened tensions in Manipur following the killing of three church leaders and other recent incidents of violence in Kangpokpi and Noney districts.

Organisers said further democratic protests may continue if their demands are not addressed.