Imphal, July 31: Security forces in Manipur arrested five individuals, including four militants linked to three banned insurgent outfits, for their alleged involvement in extortion and militant activities across multiple districts, police said on Thursday. The arrests and subsequent arms recovery took place during coordinated operations conducted on Wednesday.
In one of the operations at Ngaikhong Khunou checkpoint in Bishnupur district, an active member of the proscribed People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and his associate — a non-member — were apprehended for allegedly extorting money from contractors, businesspersons, and the general public in Bishnupur and Imphal districts.
In a separate raid, security personnel arrested a member of the banned Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP-PWG) from Heirol Part 2 in Thoubal district. He was accused of extortion, issuing threats, and recruiting new cadres for the outfit.
Another active militant belonging to the outlawed Prepak (Pro) was nabbed from Taothong Khunou in Imphal West. According to the police, he was also involved in extortion activities in the region.
Additionally, another member of KCP (PWG) was arrested from Kairang Chingya in Imphal East district.
In parallel operations carried out in Churachandpur and Thoubal districts, security forces recovered 26 firearms, nine explosives, and various ammunition. The recoveries are part of ongoing counter-insurgency efforts aimed at restoring peace in the strife-hit state.
