IMPHAL, July 4: Joint security forces in Manipur have recovered a massive cache of weapons, explosives, and ammunition during an overnight operation conducted between July 3 and July 4. The operation, based on specific intelligence inputs, was carried out across several hill districts and has dealt a significant blow to militant stockpiling in the region.
The coordinated effort involved teams from the Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, Indian Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), who launched simultaneous search operations in suspected militant hideouts across the districts of Tengnoupal, Kangpokpi, Chandel, and Churachandpur. The offensive targeted remote interior locations where arms were believed to be stored.
The seizure included an astonishing 203 firearms: 21 INSAS rifles, 11 AK-series rifles, 26 Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs), 2 sniper rifles, 3 carbines, 17 .303 rifles, 2 51mm mortars, 2 MA assault rifles, 3 M79 grenade launchers, and 38 ‘Pompi’ improvised guns. Authorities also confiscated several pistols, bolt-action rifles, and country-made weapons.
In addition to firearms, the forces recovered 30 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), 10 hand grenades, 9 Pompi shells, 2 Lathode grenades, and a large quantity of 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm ammunition—components commonly used by insurgent groups.
Security officials believe the recovered arsenal was being stockpiled for use by underground militant outfits or anti-social elements operating in the region.
The Manipur Police have urged the public to cooperate with security forces and report any suspicious activities or information related to illegal arms to the nearest police station or the Central Control Room.
