Security forces in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district have made a significant breakthrough, uncovering a large cache of arms and ammunition in operations targeting insurgent strongholds, police confirmed on Thursday. The seizures underscore the ongoing battle against militancy in the state, which has been grappling with violence since May 2023.
On Wednesday, a targeted operation in the forested area between Maohing and Changoubung villages led to the recovery of an American M16 rifle with a 10-round magazine, a .303 rifle, two Colt Machine Guns (CMGs), three pistols, a .22 rifle, six bolt-action rifles, two short-barreled rifles, three improvised projectile launchers, two hand grenades, and four radio sets. The haul points to sophisticated militant networks operating in the region’s rugged terrain.
In a parallel raid near Kotzim village, forces seized a carbine, a single-barrel rifle, three improvised mortars, two additional hand grenades, and three pull-mechanism rifles. These operations reflect heightened security measures to disrupt illegal arms trafficking in Manipur’s hill districts.
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In a related development, authorities arrested V Shiva, alias Ishwar Pandey (36), in Moreh, Tengnoupal district, for his role in extorting truckers and businesses, smuggling goods, and funneling arms to militant groups. The arrest occurred in Ward 4 of the border town, a known hotspot for cross-border illicit activities.
Over the past 24 hours, two militants were also detained. Sarangthem Ibomcha Meitei (22), a member of the banned Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup, was apprehended at his home in Itham Wangma, Imphal East district. Suraj Oinam (23), an active cadre of the outlawed Kangleipak Communist Party (PWG), was arrested in Lamshang, Imphal West district.
The operations come amid heightened tensions in Manipur, where ethnic clashes since May 2023 have led to over 250 deaths, displaced 60,000 people, and seen the looting of thousands of weapons from state armories. The recent seizures and arrests highlight the concerted efforts of Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, and central forces to dismantle insurgent networks and restore peace in the region.
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