Major Crackdown on Militants Across Manipur, 17 Cadres Nabbed, Huge arms recovered
Security forces foiled an infiltration attempt and arrested 17 cadres from multiple insurgent groups during coordinated operations across Manipur.
IMPHAL- Security forces in Manipur have carried out a series of coordinated intelligence-based operations over the past week, resulting in the arrest of 17 cadres associated with various proscribed insurgent outfits and the recovery of a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives.
The operations, conducted jointly by the Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, and Special Commandos, were spread across multiple districts, including Tengnoupal, Chandel, Thoubal, Kangpokpi, Imphal East, Imphal West, and Churachandpur.
According to official sources, a major infiltration attempt by 10 cadres of PREPAK (RA) was foiled in Tengnoupal district. In a related operation near the Indo-Myanmar border, security personnel recovered six pistols, one rifle, 15 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and communication equipment. The IEDs were destroyed on site.
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On March 22, 14 cadres of UNLF (K) were arrested from the Haokhong area in Thoubal district. Security forces seized two INSAS rifles, multiple magazines, ammunition, cash amounting to ₹1 lakh, mobile phones, helmets, backpacks, and vehicles.
Subsequent operations in Kangpokpi district on March 24 and 26 led to the recovery of various firearms, including carbines, country-made pistols, bolt-action rifles, improvised mortars, and ammunition of different calibres. Similar recoveries were reported from Imphal East and Imphal West districts, including pistols, rifles, communication devices, and protective gear.
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In a separate operation on March 26, three cadres linked to PLA/RPF were arrested in Imphal East district for allegedly planning IED attacks targeting businessmen. Explosive materials, including TNT, detonators, timers, and IEDs, were recovered from their possession.
Security forces also apprehended an alleged illegal arms dealer in Imphal East on March 27, seizing locally made firearms and magazines. Additionally, unexploded mortar shells were recovered from parts of Churachandpur district.
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Officials stated that all apprehended individuals and recovered items have been handed over to the police for further investigation and legal proceedings.
The operations come amid ongoing efforts by security agencies to curb insurgent activity and prevent cross-border infiltration in the region. Authorities have described the coordinated action as part of a broader strategy to stabilise the security situation in Manipur, which has witnessed periodic unrest and militant activity.
Officials indicated that surveillance and intelligence-based operations will continue, particularly in sensitive border areas, to prevent further attempts at infiltration and to dismantle networks involved in illegal arms movement and insurgent activities.
