In a significant move aimed at de-escalating regional tensions, residents from seven districts in Manipur voluntarily surrendered a substantial arsenal of weapons and military equipment to local authorities on February 25th. Official reports confirmed the handover, marking a notable step towards reducing armed violence in the region.
The surrendered items, numbering 87 different types of weapons, were received at various police stations across Churachandpur, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kangpokpi, Jiribam, and Imphal West districts. This diverse collection ranged from sophisticated military-grade rifles to locally crafted explosives, along with a significant quantity of ammunition and tactical gear.
Among the notable weapons surrendered were Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs), INSAS light machine guns, AK-47 rifles, sniper rifles, pistols, and an 81mm mortar. The cache also included numerous country-made firearms and improvised explosive devices, signaling a broad spectrum of weaponry being relinquished by the community.
Concurrent with the voluntary surrender, security forces conducted extensive search operations in vulnerable areas along the hill and valley districts. These operations led to the recovery of additional improvised mortars, bombs, and approximately 5.5 kg of IEDs with detonators. The recovered explosives were subsequently destroyed on-site near H. Monjang village in Tengnoupal District, preventing their potential use in future conflicts.
The surrendered items further included hundreds of rounds of ammunition for various weapon types, along with tactical equipment such as bulletproof vests, helmets, radio sets, and military uniforms. The voluntary handover of such a comprehensive array of military equipment reflects a significant community effort towards fostering peace and stability in the region.