Imphal: Imphal witnessed a major law enforcement breakthrough on April 24 as Manipur Police arrested several members of different banned militant outfits during coordinated operations across the Imphal East and West districts.
The crackdown targeted individuals involved in a string of extortion activities affecting public infrastructure, schools, fuel stations, and healthcare facilities.
The series of arrests began with the capture of 28-year-old Yaikhom Kiran Meitei, an active member of KCP (City Meitei), from Phaknung Sangomshang Village in Imphal East. Police seized a mobile phone from his possession at the time of arrest. Shortly after, Nongthombam Ratan Singh, 48, also affiliated with the same outfit, was detained from Sawombung Kabui Khunjao. Both individuals are believed to be part of an extortion network that targeted petrol pumps across the district.
Further tightening the net, security personnel arrested Takhellambam Premkumar Singh, 47, of KCP (PWG) from a farmhouse in Chekshabi Pat. Police said Singh had been threatening residents in connection with extortion demands. In addition to his arrest, officials recovered three mobile phones, identification documents, and a vehicle linked to the operation.
In Imphal West, authorities apprehended Leiphrakpam Sanatomba Meitei, 32, a member of the RPF/PLA group, who was allegedly extorting money from educational institutions. Police recovered Rs. 30,000 in cash, a mobile phone, and a two-wheeler suspected to be used in the illegal activities. Another RPF/PLA operative, 39-year-old Phuritshabam Sunil Singh, was nabbed near Orchid Farm in Khonghampat, also found in possession of a mobile phone.
A significant bust took place at RIMS Hospital, where three active cadres of the UNLF (P) were arrested in connection with extortion operations targeting toll booths and healthcare establishments. The suspects—Heisnam Thomas Singh, Arambam Tomtom, both aged 29, and Ningombam Manao Meitei, 44—were found with Rs. 1,13,910 in cash, six mobile phones, identity documents, and a vehicle.
Police officials confirmed that the arrests were made based on actionable intelligence and are part of a larger effort to dismantle militant-financed extortion networks that have disrupted civic life and public services in the region. Investigations into the wider network are ongoing.