Manipur: Large Cache of Weapons Seized in Kangpokpi and Imphal East
Combined security forces recovered firearms, more than 1,200 rounds of 12-bore ammunition, grenades, communication sets and protective gear during separate search operations in Kangpokpi and Imphal East.
IMPHAL- Security forces recovered a substantial quantity of firearms, ammunition, communication equipment and protective gear during two separate search operations in Kangpokpi and Imphal East districts of Manipur on August 24, according to the details provided by security authorities.
In the first operation, a combined team of Manipur Police, CRPF, RAF and CoBRA conducted a cordon-and-search operation at J. Songtun Village in Kangpokpi.
The operation resulted in the recovery of 16 12-bore guns, comprising two country-made 12-bore guns and 14 guns bearing various manufacturer, serial or licence markings. Security forces also recovered 1,225 rounds of 12-bore ammunition.
Other items seized during the operation included six VHF/wireless sets with three chargers, one Golden Antler telescope, 18 BP vests and one pouch.
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A confrontation over the seized material occurred during the withdrawal of the security forces. According to the information provided, villagers, mainly women, blocked the road with stones and demanded the return of the unverified firearms and ammunition.
Security forces subsequently dispersed the gathering and brought the situation under control.
In a separate operation on the same day, a joint team of CDO/Imphal East and 28 Assam Rifles, based on reliable intelligence corroborated by 4 Mahar (Borders), conducted a search operation at the foothills of Sinam Kom Village under Sagolmang Police Station in Imphal East.
The operation led to the recovery of several different types of firearms, including one 7.62 SLR rifle with magazine, one 5.56 INSAS rifle with two magazines and one 9mm pistol with magazine.
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Security forces also recovered one Pompi gun, one country-made lethal gun and two single-barrel guns.
The recovery further included three No. 36 hand grenades and one MG2 mortar shell, along with 45 rounds of assorted live ammunition.
Protective equipment recovered from the site comprised four BP plates, eight BP jackets and two helmets.
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Taken together, the two operations resulted in the recovery of a significant quantity of arms and ammunition, along with communication equipment and protective gear. The recoveries underline the continued presence of unaccounted firearms and ammunition in areas where security forces are conducting search operations.
The information provided does not specify whether any arrests were made in connection with either recovery or identify the ownership of the seized weapons. Further details regarding the investigation and legal action, if any, were not provided.
