Northeast Desk, 17th February: The situation in violence-stricken Manipur escalated over the last 24 hours with sporadic incidents of firing, prompting intensified search operations and area domination. These efforts resulted in the massive recovery of arms and ammunition.
During operations conducted in fringe and vulnerable areas, a substantial cache of weapons was seized. This included one SLR with a magazine, one 9mm pistol, 2 hand grenades, and 10 7.62mm rounds recovered on February 15 from Koubru ridge near Boljang in Kangpokpi district.
Additionally, in the general area of North Changoubung, Kangpokpi district, one carbine machine gun with a magazine, one SLR magazine, one hand grenade, one wood-piercing shell, and one locally made pumpi were recovered during a search operation.
Further, in the Haijang forest area of Churachandpur district, three single-barrel country-made rifles, one tear gas launcher with ammunition, one AK-47 with a magazine and live rounds, four 9mm pistols with magazines, and ten 9mm ammunition were seized.
Amid the chaos, security forces resorted to the use of legal force to repel violent mobs engaged in vandalizing and arson of government properties in Churachandpur. Tragically, two individuals lost their lives, and 14 sustained injuries, including two security personnel.
Flag marches were subsequently conducted by security forces in Churachandpur town to prevent any further untoward incidents. The situation remains tense as authorities continue efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.