In a significant blow to insurgent activities, a coordinated effort by Manipur Police and security forces over two days resulted in the apprehension of eight militants belonging to various underground organizations across several districts of the state. The operations, conducted on May 14th and 15th, also led to the recovery of a substantial quantity of arms, ammunition, and other incriminating materials.
The most prominent arrest occurred on Wednesday, May 15th, in the Heirok area of Thoubal District. Acting on specific intelligence, security forces successfully nabbed Laishram Nanao Singh, 39, an active cadre of the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) (Pro). The operation near a brick field culminated in the seizure of a .303 rifle, four illegally modified single bore action rifles, a significant haul of 54 rounds of live .303 ammunition, and a hand grenade.
Further investigation following Singh’s arrest led to the discovery of a considerable amount of military-grade equipment. This included bulletproof plates, camouflage uniforms, bulletproof jackets, and multiple magazines designed for automatic weapons. Authorities also impounded a four-wheeler vehicle and a mobile phone believed to be used by the arrested militant.
In separate but equally impactful operations carried out on the same day, security forces in Imphal East District apprehended two operatives of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) (Koireng). The arrested individuals were identified as Loushigam Loveboy Singh and Laishram Diamond Singh. At the time of their capture, they were found in possession of a .32 caliber pistol along with live ammunition.
The crackdown continued with the detention of three more insurgents in distinct operations spanning Thoubal and Imphal districts. Among those arrested was Khundrakpam Brojen Singh, 53, identified as an active member of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) (People’s War Group). According to police sources, Singh was allegedly involved in extortion activities targeting educational institutions operating in the valley region of Manipur.
Earlier, on Tuesday, May 14th, the police had successfully apprehended two active members of the United People’s Party of Kangleipak (UPPK) from the Koirengei Bazar area. These individuals were reportedly involved in extorting money from the general public in and around Imphal, further highlighting the multifaceted nature of the security challenges faced by the state. The series of successful operations underscores the ongoing efforts of the Manipur Police and security forces to maintain peace and combat insurgency in the region.