16/05/2026
Melbourne Thadou Baptist Church Condoles the Death of Thadou Church Leaders, Condemns the Killing
Media Release – May 16, 2026
The Melbourne Thadou Baptist Church (MTBC) has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic killing of Thadou church leaders, including Rev. Dr. Vumthang Sitlhou, President of the Thadou Baptist Association India (TBAI); Rev. Kaigoulun Lhouvum, Finance Secretary, TBAI; and Pastor Paogoulun Sitlhou, TBAI, who were killed in a targeted gun ambush attack on May 13, 2026, while travelling from Churachandpur to Kangpokpi after attending the United Baptist Convention meeting in Churachandpur.
The church organised a special service on May 15 night as a mark of respect and honour for the fallen Thadou church leaders. The condolence sermon was delivered by the church pastor, Ebenizer, while church chairman Khupmang and secretary Jalun also addressed the congregation on the occasion. A one-minute silence was observed in honour of the departed souls. The congregation prayed for the bereaved families and the five surviving victims, Rev. S.M. Haopu, Executive Secretary, TBAI, Rev. Hekai Simte, Rev. Kaikhothang Singsit, and the two drivers, Thangtinlen Sitlhou and Goumang Lhouvum, who are still recovering after getting treatment at Shija Hospital in Imphal.
MTBC shares ties with TBAI, particularly with Rev. Dr. Vumthang, who visited MTBC and the Thadou community in Melbourne, Australia, for two weeks during Christmas 2023. MTBC also had the opportunity to contribute to TBAI’s Holy Bible translation project into the Thadou language—a remarkable achievement led by Rev. Dr. Vumthang. The church also took part in providing support to the TBA’s Ngulhao Theological Seminary, and providing relief materials to Thadou IDPs, victims of Manipur violence, through the TBAI in 2023. He had a clear vision for the unity of the Thadou community and Thadou churches, as well as for peace, Christ-like living, and inter-community coexistence. Under his vision and leadership, the Global Thadou Christian Congress is being organised to be held later this year.
Rev. Dr. Vumthang was a man of integrity, values, dedication, humility, wisdom, compassion, and a warm, approachable personality. His leadership and passion for the Gospel, peace, forgiveness, and truth were unmatched. Many within the church and the community looked up to him with admiration and respect. The void left by the three servants of God will be difficult to fill, but we pray for the emergence of even greater leaders within the Thadou community and for the fulfillment of the vision and mission they carried forward.
MTBC strongly condemns the brutal killing and calls for justice, peace, and security for all. The church prays that the departed souls may rest in eternal peace in God’s loving arms, and that the bereaved families, TBAI, and the entire Thadou community may be comforted and strengthened by God during this difficult time.
Though they are no longer physically with us, their memory, values, teachings, and way of life will continue to inspire future generations. “Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism” (Colossians 3:25).
Their memory and legacy will continue to inspire future generations. MTBC remains committed to praying for peace in Manipur.
Issued by Melbourne Thadou Baptist Church (MTBC)
