Security forces in Manipur have arrested six persons, including three militants and two suspected drug peddlers, during a series of operations carried out across different districts of the state. A large quantity of arms, ammunition, explosives and narcotics were recovered during the operations, officials said on Saturday.
Manipur Director General of Police (DGP) Mukesh Singh also visited the Imphal East District Police Headquarters and reviewed the prevailing law-and-order situation, crime trends and operational preparedness in the district.
According to police officials, three cadres of the banned People’s Liberation Army (PLA) were arrested during separate operations conducted in Kakching and Imphal West districts. Security personnel recovered weapons, ammunition and other incriminating materials from their possession.
The recovered items included one 9 mm pistol with an empty magazine, 18 live rounds of different calibres, one 12-bore cartridge, four detonators, two remote-control devices suspected to be used for Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), along with PLA flags and banners.
In another major operation, security forces, including Assam Rifles personnel, recovered a large quantity of arms and combat-related equipment from the Mayai Leikai area under Heirok Police Station in Thoubal district.
The recovered items included a USA-made .32 pistol with magazine, two single-barrel breech-loading (SBBL) guns, 71 rounds of ammunition, two tear smoke shells, 12 stickers bearing the logo of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), 14 bulletproof plates, one bulletproof jacket, combat uniforms, shoes, belts and other military accessories.
Police said all recovered weapons and materials have been handed over to Heirok Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, in separate anti-narcotics operations, security forces arrested two alleged drug peddlers from Imphal West and Thoubal districts and seized large quantities of methamphetamine tablets and heroin.
The arrested persons were identified as Md. Farish Khan (28), a resident of Thoubal district, and Dil Bahadur Chetry (41), a resident of Tinsukia district in neighbouring Assam. Another accused, Md. Eliyash Khan alias Apik alias Rocky (36), was arrested from Imphal East district.
During a security review meeting at Imphal East District Police Headquarters, DGP Mukesh Singh directed officers to focus on quality investigations, effective supervision and speedy disposal of important criminal cases.
He also stressed the need for intensified anti-insurgency operations, proactive policing and strict action against anti-social and anti-national elements. The DGP emphasised maintaining discipline, integrity and professionalism within the police force.
Meanwhile, security forces comprising central and state agencies have continued extensive search operations and area domination exercises in vulnerable areas across Manipur.
As part of enhanced security measures, 116 checkpoints and nakas have been established across valley and hill districts to prevent the movement of militants, suspicious persons and vehicles.
Security forces are also providing escorts to vehicles carrying essential commodities along the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37), ensuring safe and uninterrupted transportation.
Manipur Police has appealed to the public to remain alert and avoid spreading or believing rumours and fake videos circulating on social media platforms.
