IMPHAL, June 16: In a major crackdown on insurgent activity, Manipur Police arrested six operatives affiliated with different militant outfits during coordinated operations conducted across three districts over the weekend. The successful operations also led to the recovery of firearms, explosives, and other incriminating materials.
The most significant of the raids took place on June 14 near the Taret river in Kamjong District, where three suspected insurgents were apprehended. Among them were two members of the proscribed Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL) — Bidyananda Shijagurumayam, 25, of Khurai Thongam Leikai in Imphal East, and Tonsana Moirangthem, 27, from Moirang Thamnapokpi in Bishnupur District. The third individual, identified as Omikanta Nongmaithem, 27, a resident of Wangjing Lamding Bazaar in Thoubal District, was linked to the Kanglei People’s Congress (KCP).
Security personnel recovered a cache of weapons from the trio, including a 7.65mm pistol with two live rounds and a .22 calibre pistol with three rounds. Additionally, 25 detonators, two mobile phones, Rs 1,840 in Indian currency, and 20,000 Myanmar kyat were seized from the suspects.
In a separate set of operations on June 15, police arrested three more individuals. Near Sawombung Bridge in Imphal East District, Takhellambam Gandhi Singh, alias Thouba, a 25-year-old KCP (MC Progressive) operative from Thoubal District, was detained. His belongings included a mobile phone, SIM card, and Aadhaar card.
Meanwhile, at Shikhong Shemai Bazar in Thoubal District, two cadres of the KCP (MFL) faction — 19-year-old Songam Hungyo of Sada Lungthar and 25-year-old Toijam Jamson Meitei, alias Boro, of Kongpal Kongkham Leikai — were also arrested. Authorities recovered two mobile phones from the duo.
Police have launched a deeper investigation into the backgrounds and potential networks of all the arrested individuals. Officials believe these arrests mark a significant step in curbing insurgent operations in the region.
“These operations are part of ongoing efforts to dismantle militant networks and maintain peace and order in the state,” a senior police official stated.
