Imphal: In a significant crackdown on rampant extortion activities plaguing Manipur, security forces have apprehended two active militants from proscribed organisations in separate, swift operations, delivering a substantial blow to networks that have been terrorising local businesses and professionals across the state.
On July 17, a precise operation saw the arrest of Thokchom Yoihenba Singh, known by his aliases Wangba and Lion, from Thinungei Mamang Paton in Bishnupur district. The 21-year-old, a member of the banned People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), had undergone 30 days of basic military training at Kakching Khunou before embarking on his extortion spree. His targets were diverse, ranging from schools and pharmacies to government offices, doctors, and engineers operating within Bishnupur district and the wider Imphal areas. Investigations revealed that Singh had already extorted a sum of Rs 1 lakh, which he subsequently handed over to his handler within the proscribed outfit. Authorities recovered a mobile phone with two SIM cards from his possession at the time of his apprehension.
A day prior, on July 16, Manipur Police successfully apprehended Sorokhaibam Pari Singh, alias Ibungo, from Koirengei Awang Potshangbam Road, near Keikol Police Post in Imphal East district. The 26-year-old is an active affiliate of the National Revolutionary Front of Manipur (NRFM). Hailing from Senjam Chirang Mayai Leikai in Imphal West district, Singh was deeply embroiled in various criminal activities, including abductions for ransom, all aimed at generating illicit funds for his organisation. Furthermore, he played a crucial role in facilitating the transportation of arms and ammunition and orchestrating the movement of cadres within the valley region. Police recovered a mobile phone and wallet from his possession during the arrest.