A wave of grief and outrage swept through Nagaland’s capital as hundreds gathered for a solemn candlelight vigil on Wednesday evening to honor the memory of Vihozhonu Zao, a 22-year-old state-level basketball player who was found murdered on October 25. The vigil, held at the D Khel Basketball Court in Seikhazou, was organized by the Kohima District Basketball Association (KDBA) and Team ABC, drawing members of the sports community, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens.
Zao’s body was discovered near a ring well at Old Ministers’ Hill Colony, sparking widespread condemnation and calls for justice. In response, the Kohima Police has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Additional SP and PRO K Soriso to probe the case. Authorities have described the investigation as a “blind case” but assured the public that all leads are being pursued with urgency and diligence.
During the vigil, speakers paid tribute to Zao’s contributions to Nagaland’s sporting community, describing her as a rising star and a role model for young athletes. The KDBA, in a statement, said the gathering was held “under the heaviest of circumstances,” mourning not only a personal loss but also condemning the “tragic act of violence that has stolen a bright light from the world.”
The Southern Angami Sports Association (SASA) and the Basketball Association of Mokokchung District (BAMD) also issued strong statements denouncing the killing. SASA called the act “inhumane and barbaric,” while BAMD expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a promising athlete and welcomed the formation of the SIT, urging a thorough and transparent investigation.
The incident has galvanized public sentiment across Nagaland, with growing demands for swift justice and enhanced safety measures for women. Civil society groups have pledged continued support to the victim’s family and have called for community solidarity in the face of such violence.
As the investigation continues, the people of Kohima remain united in mourning and in their resolve to seek justice for Vihozhonu Zao, whose life and legacy have left an indelible mark on the state’s sporting and social fabric.
