In a decisive move against militancy and extortion, Manipur’s security forces announced the apprehension of several active insurgents and the seizure of a substantial cache of arms and explosives following a series of coordinated intelligence-driven operations conducted on May 9th across the state.
The operations led to the arrest of Moirangthem Suraj Meetei, also known as Amujao, a 31-year-old active member of the proscribed RPF/PLA. Meetei, a resident of Khabam Lamkhai in Imphal East, was apprehended from a rented residence in Sekmai Awang Leikai, Imphal West district. Authorities confiscated a mobile phone, a wallet containing ₹300, and his Aadhaar card at the time of the arrest.
Further success was achieved near Uripok Khoisnam Leikai under Imphal Police Station, where two active operatives of the banned UNLF (P) outfit were taken into custody. The arrested individuals, identified as Kshetrimayum Blish alias Lamyanba, 20, hailing from Kwakeithel Akham Leikai, and Pebam Jet Singh, 26, a resident of Napet Palli Maning Leikai, are allegedly implicated in extortion activities targeting educational institutions, government officials, and the general populace within Imphal. The security forces recovered five mobile handsets, ₹250 in cash, Aadhaar cards, and a four-wheeler from their possession.
Prior to these arrests, on May 8th, the Manipur Police conducted a special anti-theft drive, resulting in the recovery of two stolen vehicles. Additionally, as part of heightened security protocols, tinted glass was removed from 118 vehicles across the state.
Continuing their efforts to secure vulnerable areas, security personnel conducted extensive search operations and area domination exercises in the fringe regions of both hill and valley districts. These operations yielded a significant recovery of arms and explosives, including one AK-56 rifle with a magazine, one INSAS rifle accompanied by two magazines, one carbine with a magazine, six Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), two hand grenades, 171 rounds of 5.56 mm ammunition, and 30 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition.
In a related incident in Tengnoupal district, security forces intercepted two individuals attempting to illegally cross the Indo-Myanmar border near BP 75 in the T. Minou area. While the suspects managed to evade capture, they abandoned two gunny bags which contained the aforementioned recovered arms and ammunition.
In the wake of these developments, authorities have declared an intensification of combing and surveillance operations throughout Manipur. This strategic move aims to dismantle existing extortion networks and effectively prevent the movement of militants across the international border, reinforcing the state’s commitment to restoring peace and security.