IMPHAL, June 8: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Saturday arrested a member of Arambai Tenggol (AT) at Imphal Airport for his alleged involvement in criminal activities related to the 2023 Manipur ethnic violence. The arrest was made as part of the ongoing investigation into multiple conflict-related cases, which are being probed under the direction of the Supreme Court of India.
According to an official press release issued by the CBI, the individual was taken into custody at the airport and was subsequently transported to Guwahati. He will be produced before the competent court in Guwahati for police remand.
The CBI further stated that the family of the arrested individual has been informed about the development.
Reiterating its commitment to a fair and thorough investigation, the CBI emphasized that the entire process is being carried out as per the Supreme Court’s instructions. Due to prevailing law and order concerns in Manipur, trials connected to the 2023 ethnic violence have been relocated from Manipur to Guwahati.
The agency confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing.
Violence erupted on the night of June 7 as group members clashed with security forces in areas like Kwakeithel and Uripok. Protesters used burning tyres and household furniture to block major roads. Slogans such as “We are civilians, not terrorists” and “Release our leader or arrest us all” echoed through the streets.
To curb the chaos, authorities have suspended internet and mobile data services — including VSAT and VPN — across the districts of Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching. Section 144 has been invoked in four of these districts, banning gatherings of more than four individuals. Bishnupur district has been placed under total curfew.
Reacting strongly to Singh’s arrest, Arambai Tenggol announced a 10-day bandh starting June 8, further straining an already volatile environment.
In a dramatic and tragic turn, some demonstrators attempted self-immolation to protest the arrest. One protester emotionally declared, “We have given up arms. We have done what you’re supposed to do during the floods. Now you’re arresting us. We will kill ourselves.”
Security forces responded with tear gas shelling to disperse the crowds, resulting in multiple injuries and bringing traffic to a standstill across several key routes in Imphal.
