IMPHAL, April 11: In a major crackdown on insurgent activities, Manipur police arrested three militants and recovered a significant cache of weapons during multiple operations carried out across the state on April 10.
In Imphal East District, a team under the jurisdiction of Lamlai Police Station apprehended Oinam Rabichandra Singh, a 33-year-old active member of the banned outfit KYKL/SOREPA. He was arrested near the FCI Godown in Sawombung.
Meanwhile, in a separate operation along Ngariyan Yairipok Road, security personnel arrested Mutum Kamei Badal, a 40-year-old member of the RPF/PLA from Uchathol, Jiribam District. Authorities stated that Badal was actively involved in extortion and the transportation of weapons. A mobile phone was seized during his arrest.
In a third incident, security forces detained Md. Israk Khan, also known as Popo, in Kairang Village. The 21-year-old is said to be an active member of the KCP (PWG). A mobile phone was also confiscated from his possession.
Alongside the arrests, extensive search operations were carried out in vulnerable areas across both the hill and valley districts, resulting in the recovery of a substantial cache of arms. In Churachandpur District, authorities seized a .22 rifle with an empty magazine, a single barrel gun, and two locally-made “Pompi” weapons.
The most significant discovery occurred along the western river bank of Pukhao Ahallup in Imphal East District, where security forces uncovered a hidden weapons stockpile. The recovery included a 9mm submachine gun with three magazines, a double barrel gun, a .32 pistol loaded with three live rounds, four hand grenades, ten detonators, a quantity of explosives, and more than 50 rounds of ammunition. In addition to these, officials also recovered communication equipment, protective gear, and various components associated with weaponry.
Police have stated that similar operations will continue as part of intensified efforts to curb militancy and illegal arms circulation in the region.
