Manipur: Ukhrul Police Recover 80% of Looted Weapons Amid Ongoing Dispute
Northeast Desk, 6th October: In a significant breakthrough, Ukhrul police have successfully recovered 80% of the weapons stolen during violent clashes between villagers over a land dispute earlier this month. The announcement was made by IGP IK Muivah during a press briefing today, where he confirmed that intensive search operations will continue until all looted arms are retrieved.
The recovered cache includes two carbines, six INSAS rifles, eight 9mm pistols, three AK rifles, one SLR, and a substantial quantity of ammunition. The weapons were displayed at the Ukhrul police station, with senior officials including DIG Worngam Ningshen, DC Ukhrul Zuringla Kengoo, and Ukhrul SP Kartik Malathi in attendance.
IGP Muivah stated that additional security personnel have been deployed at the district headquarters to prevent further violence between the villages of Ukhrul/Hunphun and Hungpung, where the dispute occurred. He also confirmed that DIG Ningshen and Kamjong SP Ningshem Vashum are assisting the local administration, alongside the Border Security Force (BSF) and Assam Rifles, in maintaining peace and order.
Acknowledging the pivotal role played by civil society organizations and local leaders in facilitating the recovery, Muivah urged continued cooperation from the community. The violent clashes, which erupted on October 2, tragically claimed the lives of four people, including one police officer, and left around 40 others injured. The police vowed to press on with operations until all remaining looted arms are recovered.