Imphal: Security forces have arrested nine cadres from banned insurgent groups following a string of intelligence-driven operations across Manipur’s Thoubal, Kakching and Churachandpur districts, officials said.
According to a Defence Spokesman, the operations were carried out on Sunday by joint teams from the Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, and state Commandos. Six columns, working alongside commando units, coordinated closely to track down and detain the militants.
Those arrested belong to three outlawed outfits: the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and its political front, the United People’s Party of Kangleipak (UPPK), as well as the United Kuki National Army (UKNA).
Beyond the arrests, the operations proved valuable on the intelligence front, uncovering details about how these groups run their extortion rackets, track security movements, and move money through their networks.
Searches conducted during the operation also turned up a substantial cache of weapons and explosives. Security forces recovered an AK-47, a .303 LMG with a spare barrel, three INSAS rifles, four single-barrel guns, and two 9mm pistols. Also seized were 2,156 live rounds of ammunition, 29 magazines, 157 spent rounds, 1.5 kg of commercial plastic explosives, 14 detonators, and various communication devices.
All those detained, along with the recovered arms and materials, have been handed over to police stations in Kakching, Sugnu, Thoubal, Waikhong, Hiyanglam, Wangoo and Arong for further legal action.
The Defence Spokesman noted that the success of these operations highlights how effective coordinated action between the Army and police can be in dismantling insurgent networks. He said the broader goal remains clear — cutting off extortion, breaking up militant structures, and keeping the region safe for civilians.
“These relentless joint operations reflect the unwavering commitment of the security forces towards maintaining peace, stability and public safety across Manipur,” he said.
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