Imphal: In a series of coordinated operations across Manipur, security forces and state police have arrested five individuals, including active members of banned insurgent outfits, and seized a substantial quantity of illegal liquor, officials confirmed.
In Imphal West, police arrested Nanao Singh (49), an active member of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party (People’s War Group), from his residence at Loitang Khullen Maning Leikai. He was reportedly involved in extortion targeting government officials in the Imphal area. Two mobile phones were seized during the operation.
In a separate action in Imphal East, security forces apprehended another active militant belonging to the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK-Pro). Identified as Sapam Sagar Singh (30) of Leimakhong Mapal, Lamlai, he was arrested near Sagolmang Bazar CHC. One mobile phone was recovered from his possession.
In Kangpokpi district, patrolling troops along NH-02 between T Khullen and Koubru Laikha intercepted a suspected extortion attempt. A group of individuals was reportedly stopping commercial trucks to collect illegal money. Upon spotting the patrol, the group fled, but one person, Lunminthang Guite (27) of Khamenlok, Saikul, was caught. Security personnel recovered a smartphone and Rs 25,000 in cash.
Further south, in Tengnoupal district, Moreh Police conducted a targeted raid in Moreh town against illegal liquor trade. The operation led to the seizure of 120 bottles of whiskey, 41 bottles of rum, 24 bottles of wine, 17 bottles of vodka, and multiple beer bottles. A similar anti-liquor operation in Churachandpur district yielded an even larger haul, with 267 bottles of IMFL whiskey, 72 bottles of rum, and 160 beer cans confiscated during a night-time raid. The entire cache was destroyed in the presence of an Executive Magistrate, Excise officials, and media representatives.
In another counter-insurgency operation on April 7, an active cadre of the banned United People’s Party of Kangleipak (UPPK) was arrested in Imphal East. Ningombam Ajitkumar Singh (49), a resident of Singjamei Makha Khongnang Pheidekpi in Imphal West, was picked up from Pebiya Pandit Leikai near Meira Shang. Authorities allege that he was engaged in systematic extortion from the general public and educational institutions in the capital region. A two-wheeler and a mobile phone were seized from him.
The crackdown underscores the ongoing efforts by Manipur Police and security forces to dismantle insurgent networks and curb the illegal liquor trade across the state.
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