Security forces have arrested seven people from different parts of Manipur for allegedly possessing illegal firearms during a series of operations linked to the investigation into the deadly ambush on an Assam Rifles convoy in Ukhrul district earlier this month.
According to the police, four residents of Sikibung village in Ukhrul district were arrested during a targeted operation on Tuesday as part of the investigation into the July 6 ambush on an Assam Rifles convoy at Shangshak near Nungshang Khong, about 17 kilometres from the district headquarters. The attack had claimed the lives of two Assam Rifles personnel.
During the operation, security personnel recovered two single-barrel breech-loading (SBBL) guns, several live SBBL cartridges and a wireless communication set from the accused.
In another operation conducted on Wednesday, security forces arrested an alleged active cadre of the banned Kangleipak Communist Party-MC (Progressive) from Khurai Ahongei in Imphal East district. Police said an illegal firearm was recovered from his possession.
On the same day, two more individuals were arrested from Khurai Lairikyengbam in Imphal East district. During the search, security personnel seized a pistol, two magazines and 11 live rounds of ammunition.
Police said the arrests were made as part of intensified search operations and area domination exercises being carried out across vulnerable hill and valley districts of the state. The operations have been stepped up following the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur in May 2023 and are aimed at curbing the movement of illegal arms and militant activities.
Security agencies have continued to conduct regular raids and search operations in sensitive areas to recover illegal weapons, identify those involved in violent incidents and strengthen law and order across the state.
The prolonged ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities has claimed the lives of more than 260 people and displaced thousands of residents since it began in May 2023. Authorities have maintained that security operations will continue to prevent further violence, recover illegal arms and ensure the safety of civilians across Manipur.
