Imphal: Security forces and police in Manipur have intensified their crackdown on insurgent networks, narcotics trafficking, extortion, and theft, leading to a series of successful operations across multiple districts. The latest operations have resulted in several arrests, including members of proscribed outfits, and the seizure of arms, ammunition, narcotics, and extortion money.
In Imphal East, a major breakthrough came with the arrest of Ahanthem Rajesh, a cadre of the banned United National Liberation Front (UNLF), from Wangkhei, Porompat. Rajesh was allegedly involved in extortion activities, and a Beretta pistol with 15 live rounds, along with two mobile phones, were recovered from him. A follow-up raid on his hideout revealed a significant cache of weapons including an SMG Carbine gun, pistols, hand grenades, launching tubes, and various types of ammunition and communication devices, in addition to cash amounting to Rs 69,000.
In another targeted strike, Laishram Ramesh Singh, a 44-year-old member of UNLF (P) and the group’s alleged finance handler, was apprehended from his residence in Khundrakpam Awang Leikai. Police recovered two mobile phones and extortion money totalling Rs 21.5 lakh, reportedly collected from government employees in Imphal.
Simultaneously, in Tengnoupal district, security forces apprehended two individuals — Khaiminlen Lupho of Mumpi village and Boipu Gangte of Moreh Ward No. 9 — who were caught dismantling and stealing CGI sheets from abandoned houses. The duo was later handed over to Moreh Police Station by the BSF for legal action.
In Imphal West, a major narcotics bust occurred with the arrest of Kamal Hussain from the North AOC area. Police seized over 1 kg of brown heroin, four small vials containing additional heroin, a mobile phone, and identity documents. Meanwhile, in Tamenglong district, a joint team recovered two soap cases filled with suspected heroin powder weighing approximately 70 to 80 grams near Tadbung village along NH-37.
Security forces also conducted extensive search operations and area domination exercises across both hill and valley districts. A temporary training camp for village volunteers at Gelmol village in Churachandpur was dismantled during these operations, as part of the ongoing effort to curb militant training infrastructure.
Further tightening the noose on insurgent elements, the police arrested a KYKL cadre, identified as Moirangthem Champion Singh (21), from Bishnupur district on April 12.
With operations showing no signs of slowing, Manipur Police and security forces have reaffirmed their commitment to restoring law and order and ensuring the safety of citizens in the strife-hit state.