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Dimapur, Nagaland, May 14, 2026:
The two Brothers are flanked by Fr Philip CM and Fr Suresh SDB
Abducted Young Salesians Released Safely, Dimapur Province Expresses Gratitude
The safe release of two abducted young Salesians has brought relief and renewed hope to the Salesian community and the people of Northeast India after a tense 24-hour ordeal in Manipur.
Salesian brothers Panmei Aching Albert and Poji Küvisie Peter were abducted around 9 p.m. on May 13 while travelling from Don Bosco Imphal to Don Bosco Maram, nearly 20 kilometres away. The two young religious were released safely on the night of May 14.
In an official communication issued from the Salesian Provincial House in Dimapur, Provincial Fr Joseph Pampackal expressed profound gratitude to all those who contributed to securing the brothers’ freedom. He acknowledged the coordinated efforts of civil society organisations, church leaders, community elders, police personnel, and numerous well-wishers whose intervention helped bring the crisis to a peaceful conclusion.
Fr Pampackal also conveyed special appreciation to members of the Kuki community who ensured the safety of the two Salesians during their captivity, describing their actions as a powerful witness to reconciliation and mutual respect even amid difficult circumstances.
Sharing the news with the confreres, the Provincial wrote: “With hearts filled with gratitude to God, I am happy to inform you that our two Brothers, Cl. Pamei Aching Albert and Cl. Poji Kiivisie Peter has been safely released from captivity this night (14 May). We thank God for His providential care and protection over them, and for the loving and motherly intercession of Mary Help of Christians.”
He further thanked the Salesian communities for their prayers, solidarity, and constant support throughout the crisis. Particular appreciation was extended to the Vice Provincial, the Provincial Economer, and the Provincial Secretary for their close coordination and generous availability during the efforts to secure the brothers’ release.
Quoting the Scriptures — “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9) and “Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding” (Romans 14:19) — Fr Pampackal reaffirmed the Salesian commitment to peacebuilding, dialogue, and service in the region.
The release of the two young Salesians has been widely welcomed as a sign of hope and healing, strengthening bonds among communities and reaffirming the Salesians' mission to serve with faith, courage, and compassion amid challenging circumstances.
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