Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal
Imphal, Sep 1: In one of the most extensive counter-insurgency crackdowns in recent weeks, combined security forces in Manipur have arrested three hardcore militants and seized a large cache of arms, explosives, and narcotics. The coordinated operations were conducted across nine districts, including both valley and hill regions.
According to Defence Spokesman Lt Col Amit Shukla, troops from the Army and Assam Rifles, working closely with Manipur Police, launched precise, intelligence-driven raids in Jiribam, Churachandpur, Bishnupur, Kakching, Chandel, Tamenglong, Kangpokpi, Imphal West, and Imphal East. These operations resulted in the apprehension of three cadres linked to Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) and Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL).
The forces recovered 53 firearms, including AK-series rifles, US-made M16s, INSAS, Self-Loading Rifles, bolt-action rifles, and a wide variety of pistols, carbines, and single-barrel weapons. The seizure also included seven Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), a large stock of ammunition, grenades, tear gas shells, and other explosive materials.
Military-grade protective gear and communications equipment such as Baofeng handsets, tactical boots, bulletproof covers, military fatigues, and radio sets were also recovered, pointing to the militants’ combat readiness.
In a separate raid in S Munnuam village, Churachandpur, the Assam Rifles intercepted a significant narcotics smuggling operation, seizing over 1,200 methamphetamine tablets valued at approximately Rs 10 lakh. This operation disrupted a critical node in the region’s illegal drug trade.
Additionally, in Haolenphai, Moreh (Tengnoupal District), another individual suspected of extortion and weapon smuggling was apprehended.
Authorities recovered a mobile phone containing potential evidence, further tightening the noose on insurgent-linked criminal activities.
Officials said the crackdown highlights a renewed focus on disrupting militant networks and dismantling their operational logistics across sensitive regions of Manipur.