Imphal: Manipur Police intensified its operations over the weekend, resulting in key arrests linked to insurgent groups, vehicle thefts, and a sweeping crackdown on traffic violations across the state. The concerted action reflects growing efforts by law enforcement to restore stability and deter criminal activity in sensitive regions.
On July 13, police apprehended Athokpam Sunil alias Langamba alias Lelin, a 43-year-old active cadre of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party (MFL), from Hapta Kangjeibung in Palace Compound, Imphal East. According to police sources, Sunil had been extorting money from local businessmen and was operating under the radar for some time.
A day earlier, on July 12, Thoubal Police arrested another insurgent, Singam Kabikanta Meitei (33), an active member of the KCP (Apunba City Meitei), from Thoubal Kshetri Leikai Moirangpalli. He was reportedly involved in threatening and extorting government employees. During the arrest, authorities recovered a red Honda Activa and a 36 HE hand grenade from his possession, heightening security concerns over armed extortion tactics.
In a parallel operation, police detained Khullakpam Ayajuddin alias Arish (40), a member of the UNLF (P), from Mayang Imphal Bengoon Makha Leikai. He was actively extorting money from residents in the Mayang Imphal area. A mobile phone and Aadhaar card were seized during the operation, and further investigations are ongoing.
Meanwhile, in a crackdown on vehicle-related crimes, Imphal West police arrested Sapam Mick Singh (27) in connection with a stolen Hyundai i20 car. The vehicle was successfully recovered, and police are probing whether Singh is part of a larger car theft network operating in the region.
Authorities also ramped up enforcement against traffic violations. On July 13 alone, 79 challans were issued, collecting Rs 1.41 lakh in fines. A day earlier, 22 vehicles were detained for various violations, including absence of proper registration documents and missing number plates. Eleven vehicles were stripped of tinted films during a focused drive to improve visibility and enforce compliance.
In an effort to maintain law and order, security forces set up 111 checkpoints across vulnerable areas in both hill and valley districts. Four individuals were detained during these checks for verification. Search operations and area domination patrols continue across several sensitive zones in response to ongoing insurgent threats.
Police have reiterated their commitment to continue these drives in coordination with paramilitary and intelligence agencies to ensure public safety and curb the resurgence of anti-social elements.
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