Eight Militants Including Two Top Leaders Arrested In Manipur, Arms And Ammo Seized

Security forces in Manipur arrested eight militants, including two senior leaders of banned outfits, during coordinated operations across multiple districts and recovered a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and incriminating materials, officials said on Tuesday.

According to a police official, among those arrested were Vincent Pumjamang Taithul (40), a self-styled Commander-in-Chief of the Zogam Liberation Front (ZLF), and Khumbongmayum Ananda Meitei alias Lamphel alias Ibomcha (53), described as a self-styled advisor of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP). The arrests were carried out in different locations spanning Churachandpur, Imphal West, Kakching, and Imphal East districts.

In a separate action, four members linked to the banned People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and its sister organisation Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF) were detained from areas under Lamlai police station in Imphal East district. Security personnel also recovered multiple sophisticated weapons, a large quantity of ammunition, mobile phones, and documents suspected to be connected to militant activities.

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Officials further confirmed that three young individuals who had allegedly been coerced and held by the arrested PLA/RPF members for possible recruitment into the outlawed group were rescued during the operation. Authorities said this highlights ongoing concerns over forced recruitment and coercion by extremist networks operating in the region.

The arrests come amid intensified intelligence-based operations by security forces across Manipur. Police said coordinated combing, cordon, and search operations are being conducted in both valley and hill districts, particularly in fringe and mixed-population areas, to counter kidnapping, extortion, and other unlawful activities linked to militant groups.

To strengthen security and prevent movement of illegal elements, authorities have set up 114 nakas (checkpoints) across the state. These checkpoints are part of broader area domination efforts aimed at monitoring vehicle movement and ensuring law and order in sensitive zones. Security escorts are also being provided for transport vehicles carrying essential supplies, including those moving along the Imphal–Jiribam National Highway (NH-37).

Manipur Police also issued a public advisory urging citizens not to circulate or believe rumours and unverified content on social media. Officials warned that fake videos and audio clips can be verified through the Central Control Room, adding that legal action will be taken against those spreading misleading information online.

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