Imphal, Manipur: In a significant push against insurgency, security forces in Manipur have apprehended four active cadres linked to various proscribed militant outfits across different districts over the past 48 hours. The arrests, stemming from intelligence-led operations, underscore the ongoing efforts to neutralise threats and restore peace in the region.
The crackdown commenced on June 19 when a dedicated team, acting on precise intelligence, successfully nabbed Gaisinglung Meiringmei alias Ronald, a 46-year-old active cadre of the NSCN (Niki Sumi) outfit. Meiringmei, a resident of Mukti Samjang village in Noney District, was apprehended from Kamranga village under Jiribam Police Station, Jiribam District. Authorities disclosed that he was a key figure in numerous criminal undertakings, including orchestrating kidnappings for ransom and carrying out extortion activities along the crucial NH-37 highway. Incriminating evidence seized from his possession included two mobile phones, a power bank, and a side bag, providing further leads for investigators.
On the very same day, in a separate, meticulously planned operation, a joint security team zeroed in on the stretch between Border Pillars No. 75 and 74, an area falling under Moreh Police Station in Tengnoupal District. This operation resulted in the capture of two more active insurgents.
The arrested individuals were identified as Nambram Taba Nungshi alias Shinthoiba, a 19-year-old from Ngute Road, Churachandpur District, who was affiliated with the PREPAK (Pro) outfit, and Thounaojam Anthony Singh, a 28-year-old from Kadamtala, Jiribam District, associated with the PLA. Their arrests deal a blow to the operational capabilities of these groups in the border region.
The concerted efforts continued into June 20, with Manipur Police successfully apprehending another active member of the RPF/PLA. The cadre, identified as Naorem Surjit Singh, 49, from Kakching Turel Wangma Ningthou Pareng, was taken into custody from Kakching Turel Wangma under Kakching Police Station, Kakching District. A mobile phone was recovered from his possession at the time of his arrest, which will likely aid in further intelligence gathering.
Meanwhile, a stark contrast to these security successes was evident in parts of Manipur, where normal life was significantly disrupted due to a shutdown enforced by certain organisations. Both Churachandpur and Kangpokpi districts experienced a complete halt to daily activities, with vehicular movement severely affected.
In response to the imposed shutdown and to maintain law and order, adequate security arrangements have been swiftly deployed across all affected areas. Forces are on high alert, working to ensure peace prevails and to prevent any potential untoward incidents arising from the situation.
Also read: Assam: Shocking Attempted Assault on Woman in Lala Railway Station