Imphal, June 12: Manipur’s security forces delivered a decisive blow against narco-terrorism and illegal arms proliferation across several districts today, with a series of significant seizures and arrests underscoring a heightened vigilance in the state. The intensified crackdown yielded a substantial haul of illicit drugs and a diverse arsenal of weaponry and explosives, painting a clear picture of the ongoing efforts to restore peace and order.
In a key development, a young man, Anshu Raj, 27, hailing from Bhojpur, Bihar, was apprehended at the Mao check post in Senapati district. His arrest, during a routine frisking of passenger vehicles departing the state, led to the recovery of two packages of suspected heroin, collectively weighing over 2 kg. The immediate arrest and seizure indicate a robust interdiction strategy at critical transit points.
Further south, near Karyam village under Machi Police Station in Tengnoupal district, security personnel unearthed a formidable cache of arms and explosives from a hidden hideout. The recovered items included a 9 mm carbine, two 9 mm pistols with their magazines, a significant quantity of live and empty ammunition, and ten locally fabricated metal Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Also found were Motorola communication sets, bulletproof jackets (minus their plates), a helmet, electric wires, shoes, and combat attire, suggesting a well-equipped clandestine operation.
Meanwhile, in Champhai village under Imphal East’s Sagolmang Police Station, another successful operation led to the discovery of a variety of illicit weapons. The haul comprised two 12 Bore Single Barrel Rifles, a .32 pistol with an empty magazine, and an assortment of live ammunition compatible with AK-47s, M-16s, and 9 mm pistols. Additionally, tear smoke shells, a smoke grenade, a camouflage bulletproof cover with iron plates, and a Baofeng wireless set were recovered, further disrupting potential threats.
The crackdown extended to Thoubal district, where a significant cache was unearthed from Ikop Pat under Thoubal Police Station. The recovered weaponry included a .303 rifle, a 9 mm pistol, as well as bolt action and single barrel rifles. The operation also yielded multiple types of live and blank rounds, tear smoke shells, and rubber bullets, indicating a broad spectrum of illegal armaments being targeted by the security forces.