Imphal: Amid a sharp rise in extortion cases across Manipur, state police are calling for public cooperation to help curb the widespread illegal activities that are causing significant economic and psychological harm to communities.
Speaking at a press conference, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Intelligence K Kabib outlined the steps law enforcement is taking to prevent extortion but acknowledged that these activities continue to thrive despite ongoing efforts.
The police emphasized the need for residents to actively report any instances of illegal money demands. Kabib assured that the identities of informants would be kept confidential, stressing that public involvement is crucial to effectively tackle the growing menace.
He urged the community to refrain from engaging in moral policing, as some groups use this as a front for covert extortion, advising that suspicious activities should be reported directly to the authorities.
Since the onset of the crisis in May 2023, various underground groups and criminal gangs have been persistently demanding money, posing as donors or levying illegal “taxes” on businesses, markets, and even schools.
Kabib noted that extortion activities have spread to national highways and public institutions, causing significant anxiety among residents. In addition to financial demands, these groups have been linked to kidnappings, grenade attacks, and issuing threats over the phone, further adding to the unrest.
In response to the escalating situation, Manipur Police have established an Anti-Extortion Cell led by the ADGP (Law and Order) and supported by all Zonal IGPs. This specialized unit oversees anti-extortion operations throughout the state.
Additionally, 15 specialized crack teams have been formed across districts to target extortion networks.
Police efforts have already yielded significant results, with 121 arrests made of individuals directly involved in extortion activities, and more than 250 members of underground groups and gangs apprehended.
The state government has also deployed 16 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) companies for Road Opening Patrols along National Highway 2, ensuring the safe transport of essential goods.
Identified extortion hotspots are under heightened security, with law enforcement ramping up patrols, surveillance, and frisking operations.
Despite these measures, IGP Kabib reiterated that long-term success in combating extortion relies on public cooperation, urging citizens to work with police in rooting out the issue.
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