Imphal: Security forces in Manipur have intensified operations targeting insurgent groups, arms smuggling networks, and vehicle theft syndicates, leading to multiple arrests over the past two days.
On August 5, an active member of the banned outfit Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), Sagolsem Hemanta Singh (41) of Phumlou Keiroi Maning Leikai in Imphal West, was arrested from his residence. Authorities revealed that Singh had been involved in recruitment activities for the proscribed outfit. A mobile phone was seized during the operation.
That same day, another arrest was made in Imphal West. Naobi Leishangthem (33), also known as Youhenba and affiliated with the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP – Military & Foreign Liaison), was apprehended from a rented house in Lamphel Yaipha Leikai. Leishangthem was reportedly engaged in extortion, out-of-court mediation of criminal cases, and intimidation — including involvement in cases related to crimes against women. Police recovered a mobile phone and Aadhaar card from his possession.
In a separate crackdown on August 4, two alleged arms smugglers were arrested in Imphal East. Ningombam Abung Meitei (50) from Huidrom Awang Leikai was detained in Pourabi Hidumbi, and Ningthoujam Konungjao Meetei (33) from Keibi Khulen Makha Leikai was arrested from his residence. Seized items included a 9mm pistol with magazine, two live rounds of ammunition, a Vespa scooter, mobile phones, and an Aadhaar card.
As part of a parallel drive against vehicle-related crimes, Manipur Police arrested two alleged vehicle lifters from Lilong Dam in Thoubal district on August 4. The accused, Md. Mufasin (20) of Lilong Makha Leikai and Md. Aman (20) of Lilong Lou Tara, were linked to the theft of a Royal Enfield Interceptor motorcycle from Lilong Kaleikhong. The stolen bike was recovered.
Traffic enforcement has also intensified. On August 5 alone, police issued 63 challans amounting to ₹99,500 in fines. A day earlier, nine vehicles had their tinted films removed and one vehicle was detained for violating traffic rules.
Officials confirmed that these actions are part of ongoing intelligence-led combing operations and cordon-and-search drives aimed at dismantling extortion rackets and suppressing underground criminal activities. Investigations into the recent arrests are currently underway.
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