IMPHAL, July 11: In a significant two-day crackdown, Manipur security forces arrested three active cadres linked to banned militant outfits and seized weapons, mobile phones, and incriminating documents during multiple coordinated operations across the state on July 9 and 10.
On July 10, a joint operation at Phougakchao-Ikhai Awang Leikai in Bishnupur district led to the arrest of Sarangthem Gobin Meitei alias Maru (36), an active cadre of the proscribed outfit PREPAK (PRO). A mobile phone with an Airtel SIM card was recovered from his possession.
The same day, another active militant belonging to KYKL (SOREPA), identified as Mayanglambam Ranjit alias Premchand (44), was apprehended by Manipur Police from Umathel Bazar in Kakching district. He hails from Umathel Makha Leikai.
Meanwhile, on July 9, security forces arrested Maibam Basanta Meitei alias Boy (40), a self-styled Lance Corporal of KYKL (SOREPA), from Mayang Imphal Thana Mamang Leikai area in Imphal West. A resident of Wabagai Thambal Chingya in Kakching, he was allegedly involved in extortion, issuing monetary demands, kidnapping, and recruitment of new cadres in Thoubal, Kakching, and Imphal West districts. Authorities recovered a 9mm pistol with a magazine, four live rounds, two mobile phones, a SIM card, and multiple identification documents including Aadhaar, PAN, and voter ID cards.
In a separate development, Manipur Police intensified their traffic enforcement drive. On July 10, 67 challans were issued for traffic violations, collecting fines totaling Rs 1,21,000. A day earlier, 20 two-wheelers were detained for lacking valid registration or number plates, and tinted films were removed from nine vehicles in compliance with traffic regulations.
The arrests mark a continued push by Manipur security forces to dismantle insurgent networks and maintain law and order across the state.
