Imphal: In an ongoing crackdown on illegal arms and explosives in Manipur, security forces recovered seven firearms and several explosive materials during search operations in Churachandpur and Tengnoupal districts. These operations come as the state continues to grapple with ethnic violence that has claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands since May last year.
In a significant recovery in Old Gelmol village under Churachandpur Police Station limits, security personnel seized seven firearms, including an AK-56 rifle, and a Chinese-origin hand grenade. The operation marked a critical effort in curbing the circulation of illegal weapons in the region.
In a separate operation in the Govajang area under the Moreh Police Station limits in Tengnoupal district, security forces discovered three improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Among these were two IEDs weighing approximately 1 kg each and one weighing nearly 5 kg, underscoring the ongoing threats in the area.
The security forces also conducted area domination exercises and search operations in Chavangphai and Govajang villages. During these efforts, additional IEDs, matching the descriptions of those found earlier, were recovered.
Beyond these recoveries, security measures have been ramped up to ensure the safe movement of vehicles transporting essential goods along the state’s key highways, NH-37 and NH-2. A total of 199 and 383 vehicles, respectively, were escorted under strict surveillance, ensuring uninterrupted supply chains amidst the unrest.
To maintain law and order, 106 Nakas and checkpoints were set up across both the hill and valley districts. While the searches did not result in any detentions, the proactive measures reflect the government’s commitment to restoring stability in the conflict-hit state.
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