Imphal: In a significant display of concerted action, Manipur Police and security forces launched a series of intelligence-led operations across the state on May 31, dealing a substantial blow to insurgent activities, drug trafficking networks, and the proliferation of illegal weaponry. The coordinated crackdown underscores the intensified efforts to bring peace and order to the region.
The operations saw the apprehension of two active cadres belonging to the proscribed outfit KYKL (SOREPA). Kharibam Nimai Singh, 45, was nabbed from Mutum Phibou under Wangoi Police Station, while Thingnam Sangeeta Devi, 42, was taken into custody at Kakching Khunou, Chekshapat Maning Leikai, under Kakching Police Station. Both individuals are alleged to have been deeply involved in extortion rackets, targeting not just the common public but also private educational institutions and a stone crusher plant operating within the valley. Police recovered four mobile phones and two Aadhaar cards from their possession, which are now part of the ongoing investigation.
In a separate, high-stakes interception, a Mahindra Thar was flagged down in front of the Imphal Telegraph Office in Imphal West District. A thorough inspection of the vehicle led to the shocking discovery of approximately 1.16 kg of suspected heroin powder, ingeniously concealed within 100 soap cases in the vehicle’s rooftop. Three individuals from Chandel District – Wangpem Lamkang, 20, Jacop Shangkhil, 18, and Wanghon Khular, 18 – were immediately arrested on the spot, highlighting the persistent battle against drug syndicates.
Further enhancing the security grid, extensive search and area domination operations were concurrently carried out in vulnerable hill and valley regions. These strategic sweeps yielded significant results, including the recovery of two SBML guns, notably without serial numbers, from Thanlon village in Pherzawl District.
Adding to the tally of illegal arms, a separate and fruitful search operation in Wabagai Thingel Leikai, under Hiyanglam Police Station in Kakching District, unearthed a substantial cache of weaponry. This included two INSAS rifles, four .303 sniper rifles, two SLRs, and an anti-riot gun, along with numerous rounds of live ammunition. Interestingly, three vehicle tyre rubber tubes were also recovered during this operation, the significance of which is under scrutiny.
To ensure the smooth flow of essential commodities and maintain normalcy, 95 vehicles were safely escorted along NH-37, a critical lifeline for the state. Security convoys were strategically deployed in sensitive areas, while a formidable network of 111 checkpoints was established across both hill and valley districts. The operations at these checkpoints proceeded without any detentions, a testament to the robust and controlled security presence effectively managing the ground situation.
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