In a significant breakthrough, security forces arrested three militants from two banned groups in Manipur across three districts, police confirmed on Friday. The arrests are part of intensified operations amid the state's ongoing ethnic tensions.

On Thursday, authorities detained a member of the outlawed Kangleipak Yawol Kanna Lup (Sorepa) in Umathel Bazar, Kakching district. Another Sorepa cadre was apprehended on Wednesday in Mayang Imphal Thana Mamang Leikai, Imphal West, for alleged involvement in extortion, kidnapping, and recruiting members in Thoubal, Kakching, and Imphal West. A 9 mm pistol and ammunition were seized from the suspect, according to a senior police officer.

In a separate operation, a member of the proscribed Prepak (Pro) was arrested in Phougakchao-Ikhai Awang Leikai, Bishnupur district, on Thursday.

Also Read: Congress Urges PM to Chair Parliament Agenda Meet

Manipur has faced heightened security measures since ethnic clashes between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo communities erupted in May 2023, claiming over 260 lives and displacing thousands. Following Chief Minister N Biren Singh’s resignation, President’s rule was imposed on February 13, 2025, with the state assembly, set to remain until 2027, currently in suspended animation.

Also Read: Manipur Crackdown: Six Arambai Tenggol Members, Three KCP Militants Nabbed in Bishnupur