Imphal, 15 July (HS): Manipur Police and security forces, further strengthening the efforts to restore peace, conducted a simultaneous search operation in the plain districts of the state on the morning of July 15 and recovered a huge quantity of arms, ammunition and explosive materials.

Based on specific intelligence, a joint operation was carried out in the border areas of Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur districts. The operation involved joint teams of Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces and Army/Assam Rifles.

The weapons recovered include AK series - five, INSAS - three, SLR - 16, 303 rifle - five, pistol - 19, carbine - two, other rifle - nine, SBBL/bore action - 16, anti-riot gun - two, JVPC - one, DBBL - one, bolt action gun - six and two inch mortar - one. Total number of weapons recovered is 86.

Ammunition and other materials recovered include grenades - nine, magazines - 41, 7.62 mm live rounds - 526, 5.56 mm - 226, .303 rounds - 190, 9 mm - seven, .32 mm - four, HE mortar shell - six, wireless handset - six, tube launcher - two and IED - four. Total live rounds recovered: 974.

Police and security forces have said that this recovery is a big success of the ongoing drive against anti-social elements. Senior police officers are monitoring the entire operation and have assured to continue similar actions in the coming days.

Manipur Police has appealed to the general public to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or central control room and cooperate in maintaining peace.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash