Imphal: Security forces in Manipur have achieved a major breakthrough in their ongoing anti-insurgency operations, recovering a substantial cache of arms and ammunition from two distinct locations across the state on Tuesday. The coordinated efforts are being hailed as a significant blow to various underground elements active in the region.
In the Churachandpur district, specifically the Songpi village area under Churachandpur Police Station, personnel recovered a variety of potent firearms. The seized items included four 9mm pistols complete with three magazines, six single-barrel rifles, one M79 grenade launcher, and one .22 rifle with its corresponding magazine.
Simultaneously, a separate, meticulously planned operation was executed in the Nobap Makhong area of Chanbirok Hill, falling under the jurisdiction of Sekmai Police Station in Imphal West district. This search yielded a considerable stockpile of locally fabricated weaponry and explosive devices, indicating a broader network of illicit manufacturing. Among the items unearthed were one air gun, one locally made Lethod-type gun, one locally made mortar, and four locally made “Pompi” guns, each mounted on bipods. Further dangerous finds included two shell-type improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and three PVC pipe-fitted IEDs. The recovery also comprised two empty magazines for .303 LMGs, two empty magazines for 7.62 LMGs, four bulletproof plates crafted from assorted materials, two camouflage helmets, and two bulletproof vests. A BAOFENG radio handset was also part of the significant seizure, pointing towards communication networks employed by the insurgents.
Investigations are presently underway to meticulously trace the origins of these recovered arms and to ascertain their intended use, with authorities keen on dismantling the supply chains that fuel insurgent activities in the state.