Imphal: In a series of coordinated operations from January 6 to January 9, security forces in Manipur successfully recovered 19 weapons, ammunition, and war-like stores from several districts affected by ethnic violence. The operations, carried out by the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police, focused on the regions of Thoubal, Kangpokpi, Churchandpur, and Kakching.
The intelligence-driven missions, which spanned both the hill and valley regions, were a collaborative effort between the Indian Army and Manipur Police, with assistance from other security agencies. The recoveries included rifles, pistols, explosives, and ammunition, marking a significant blow to the illegal arms trade in the state.
On January 6, an operation in Irong village, Thoubal district, led to the seizure of a Self Loading Rifle, a Single Barrel Rifle, an improvised mortar, three 9mm pistols, grenades, and other war-like stores. Just days later, on January 9, a similar operation in Sekmaijin, Kakching district, resulted in the recovery of additional firearms and explosives.
Earlier, on January 8, a joint effort between the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police uncovered a range of weapons, including a 7.62mm rifle, a 5.56mm rifle, and a .32mm pistol, in the Saheibung peak area of Kangpokpi district. The forces also seized a single barrel rifle and two tube launchers, along with ammunition.
In the Jiribam district, a targeted operation on January 9 led to the discovery of explosives and additional war-like materials. A subsequent operation in Churachandpur district on January 11 resulted in further significant finds, including a 7.62mm AK-56 rifle, a .303 rifle, a 9mm pistol, and three 12mm single barrel rifles.
These operations highlight the ongoing efforts to combat the flow of illicit weapons and maintain peace in the region, despite the ongoing ethnic tensions. With the security forces working in tandem, the recovery of these items represents a step forward in restoring stability to the strife-hit areas of Manipur.
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