Imphal, 10 July (HS): Security forces in Manipur have intensified their crackdown on criminal activities, resulting in a series of arrests, major recoveries of arms, explosives, narcotics, and progress in curbing vehicle-related crimes across the state.

In Senapati district, two youths from Thoubal — Ajmir Sarif and Iliyas Ali Shah, both 19 years old — were apprehended on July 9 at Mao Gate police check post. Authorities intercepted their white Winger van (AS 23CC-1074) and found 18 packets of ganja, weighing approximately 22 kilograms, with an estimated market value of ₹2.18 lakh.

Elsewhere in Imphal West, the same day, a cadre of the banned KCP (PWG) outfit was nabbed by security personnel. Identified as Shyamchand Singh (38) of Senjam Khunou, the accused was arrested from the Lamphel Super Market area for his alleged role in extortion across Bishnupur and Thoubal districts.

In yet another major breakthrough on July 9, a joint team of Manipur Police and CRPF seized 196 soap cases filled with suspected heroin or brown sugar from a vehicle near Tupul bridge. The contraband weighed 2.193 kg (excluding packaging). The two occupants — Ginminlen Haokip (Kangpokpi) and Holminlen Khongsai (Chandel) — were immediately taken into custody. The case is under investigation.

Meanwhile, counter-insurgency operations yielded significant results in terms of arms and explosive recovery. Security forces discovered a cache between Dopkon and Nganukon villages in Bishnupur district, comprising a .303 Light Machine Gun, two single-barrel guns, an empty .303 magazine, seven 12 bore cartridges and four IEDs weighing around 3.9 kg.

In a separate search at Uyungmakhong under Moirang PS, another stockpile was found: an AK-56 rifle with an empty magazine, a .303 rifle with magazine, a double-barrel (DBBL) gun, ten .303 rounds and ten 7.62 mm rounds.

Efforts to address motor vehicle theft also saw traction. On July 9, police raided the residence of suspected vehicle lifter Md. Hefajuddin alias Boboy (27) at Santhel Awang Leikai in Mayang Imphal. Though the accused evaded capture, a blue Honda Activa 6G (MN 06SF-9963), reported stolen from Imphal East on July 5, was recovered. The vehicle is in the process of being returned to its rightful owner.

Additionally, enforcement of traffic regulations was stepped up. On July 9, police issued 14 challans, resulting in fines amounting to Rs 10,000. On the previous day, officials removed tinted films from 13 vehicles during a special drive targeting violations of visibility norms.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash