Imphal: In a major breakthrough, security forces in Manipur have apprehended five suspected militants and seized a substantial arsenal of weapons and explosives during coordinated anti-extortion operations across multiple districts over the past three days.
The most significant discovery was made during search operations in the Keipha Road and Thamnapokpi areas under Moirang Police Station in Bishnupur District. The recovered items included an SLR rifle, a Sten machine gun, two 12-bore pistols, four grenades (including Chinese variants), and an improvised explosive device weighing over 2 kilograms.
Among the arrested suspects was Loitongbam Jugin Singh, a 57-year-old alleged PREPAK (Pro) cadre, who was detained on June 5 from Wangoo Ahallup Mayai Leikai in Bishnupur District. Singh is believed to have been involved in extorting money from educational institutions and civilians in the valley areas.
Additionally, three suspected RPF/PLA militants were arrested from Taothong Khunou near Khudeiban Lampak in Imphal West District. The detained individuals include Salam Amarjit Singh, Hijam Anand Singh, and Sharubam Sarat Singh.
Another suspect, Moirangthem Babu Singh (alias Chingshang), a 34-year-old suspected RPF/PLA member, was arrested on June 4 along National Highway-02. He allegedly targeted government offices, businesses, and local shopkeepers for extortion in Bishnupur District.
The recovered materials also included 10 PEK detonators, seven PEK explosive packages, body armour equipment, communication devices, and various ammunition rounds, which were concealed in plastic sacks.
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