In a major breakthrough, Nagaland Police have arrested the prime suspect in the high-profile Kohima court narcotics theft case that took place in March this year. The arrest brings fresh momentum to the investigation, which has drawn public concern over the security of judicial institutions and handling of critical evidence. The accused, 28-year-old Kevichutuo Cüze, was apprehended on June 13 after a three-month-long manhunt. Cüze is believed to have played a key role in the theft of 675 grams of heroin stored in the Prosecution Inspector’s court evidence room. The stolen narcotics were held as part of ongoing drug-related prosecutions and were considered vital to securing convictions. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of March 22 between 1:00 am and 2:00 am, involved a break-in during which 45 soap cases filled with suspected heroin were taken from the evidence storage. The theft not only represented a major loss in terms of drug seizure but also shook public trust in the integrity of the judicial process.
Led by SDPO (North) Kohima, Sheta Lohe, the investigation team used forensic clues, surveillance data, and local intelligence to trace and arrest the suspect. Cüze has since been remanded to judicial custody as police continue efforts to locate the stolen contraband and identify other individuals who may have been involved. Police sources have confirmed that the investigation remains active and that several leads are being pursued. Officials stressed that the theft was not merely a criminal act, but an attack on the credibility of the legal system.The Kohima Market area, which has often witnessed the rise of illicit drug activity, has been under close watch since the incident. Traders and residents have expressed relief over the arrest, hoping it signals stricter enforcement in the region. In contrast, in areas like the Imphal market, local authorities have stepped up security measures around court premises, citing the Kohima incident as a wake-up call.
Nagaland Police have reiterated their commitment to bringing all those involved to justice and ensuring that such lapses do not recur. The case is now being seen as a crucial test for the state’s resolve to uphold law, order, and the sanctity of judicial proceedings.
