Imphal, August 11: Security forces in Manipur have arrested five militants from three proscribed outfits in coordinated operations across Bishnupur, Imphal West, and Imphal East districts, police confirmed on Monday. The arrests were made over the weekend in connection with extortion activities and illegal possession of arms and ammunition.
On Saturday, an active cadre of the banned United National Liberation Front (Pambei) was apprehended from Toubul Mayai Leikai in Bishnupur district. Identified as Thoudam Bobby Singh (50), the militant was found carrying a .303 rifle with a magazine, five additional magazines for different rifles, one hand grenade, and 501 live rounds of various calibres. Police also recovered other incriminating items from his possession.
Though UNLF(P) signed a peace agreement with the Centre in 2023, authorities noted that several of its cadres remain active in extortion and other criminal activities.
The following day, four more militants were arrested in separate operations across the state. These included two members of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party (City Meitei) faction, one cadre of KCP (PWG), and another from the KCP (Ibungo Ngangom group).
Police said the arrested individuals were part of extortion rackets that have been targeting local businesses, government employees, and the general public. In response to the rising threat, the Manipur government has set up an integrated anti-extortion cell, comprising personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces, state police, the Army, and the Assam Rifles, to curb such activities.
