Daijiworld Media Network - Imphal
Imphal, Jun 13: Security forces in Manipur have arrested six individuals, including three suspected militants and two alleged drug traffickers, while recovering a significant cache of arms, ammunition, explosives and combat equipment during a series of coordinated operations across multiple districts of the state.
According to police officials, three cadres of the banned People's Liberation Army (PLA) were apprehended during separate operations conducted in Kakching and Imphal West districts. Security personnel recovered several incriminating items from their possession, including a 9 mm pistol, ammunition of various calibres, detonators, suspected remote-controlled improvised explosive device (IED) components, and propaganda materials linked to the outfit.
In a separate operation, security forces, including personnel from the Assam Rifles, recovered a substantial stockpile of weapons and military equipment from the Mayai Leikai area under Heirok Police Station in Thoubal district.
The seizure included a US-made .32 pistol, two single-barrel breech-loading guns, dozens of live rounds of ammunition, tear smoke shells, bulletproof gear and a large quantity of combat clothing and accessories. Authorities also recovered stickers bearing the insignia of the banned Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP).
Police said all recovered items have been handed over to Heirok Police Station for detailed investigation and legal action.
As part of ongoing anti-narcotics efforts, security personnel arrested two alleged drug peddlers in separate operations conducted in Imphal West and Thoubal districts. The accused, identified as Md. Farish Khan and Dil Bahadur Chetry, were allegedly found in possession of significant quantities of methamphetamine tablets and heroin.
In another operation, a third individual, identified as Md. Eliyash Khan alias Apik alias Rocky, was arrested in Imphal East district in connection with ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, Manipur Director General of Police Mukesh Singh visited the Imphal East District Police Headquarters to review the prevailing law-and-order situation, crime trends and operational preparedness.
During the review meeting, the DGP emphasised the importance of thorough investigations, effective supervision of criminal cases and speedy disposal of important cases. He also called for intensified anti-insurgency measures and strict action against anti-social and anti-national elements operating in the state.
Singh urged police personnel to maintain high standards of discipline, professionalism and integrity while carrying out their duties under challenging conditions. He also commended district police officers for their efforts in maintaining public order and security.
Security agencies continue to conduct search operations and area domination exercises across vulnerable and mixed-population areas as part of an ongoing crackdown on militant activities.
Officials said that 116 checkpoints and security barricades have been established across both hill and valley districts to monitor the movement of militants, suspicious individuals and vehicles.
Enhanced security measures also remain in place along the vital Imphal–Jiribam National Highway (NH-37), with security forces providing escorts to trucks and other vehicles transporting essential commodities. Authorities described the highway as a critical lifeline for the state and said convoy protection arrangements would continue in sensitive stretches.
The Manipur Police have also appealed to residents to remain vigilant against misinformation and avoid sharing unverified content, warning that fake videos and misleading posts circulating on social media could create unnecessary panic and disrupt public order.