Imphal, 24 July (HS): In a series of successful operations conducted in last 24 hours, security forces apprehended several active militants associated with different proscribed outfits involved in extortion and unlawful activities across Manipur.

Police PRO informed on Thursday that two rebels of the KCP (Taibanganba) faction were taken into custody for their involvement in extortion from educational institutions, government offices, and the general public in the valley region.

The arrested individuals are: Konjengbam Kanta Meitei (23) of Takyel Khongbal Pungsumbam Leirak, Imphal West; arrested from Khuyathong and Sanatomba Aheibam @ Sana @ Tomba (24) of Takyel Khongbal Maning Leikai, Imphal West; apprehended from Takyel Khongbal Khumanthem Leikai.

Items seized from them include three mobile phones, two wallets containing ₹8,220, PAN and Aadhaar cards, and ₹22,000 in extortion money.

In another operation the same day, a PREPAK (Pro) rebel, identified as Sorokhaibam Olen Meitei (18) @ Thoiba @ Okngakpa of Chiren Mayai Leikai, Kakching, was arrested from Tabungkhok Sagei Brick Field, Imphal West. Two mobile phones were recovered from his possession.

Meanwhile, a KCP (PWG) rebel, Sanabam Ibungo Meitei (27) @ Langamba of Yairipok Top Chingtha Maibam Leirak, Imphal East, was apprehended near Maharabi Oil Pump, Imphal West. He was reportedly involved in extorting money from oil stations in the valley. Authorities recovered one mobile phone, seven KCP (PWG) demand notes, and other items.

In another operation, a KCP (MC) rebel named Hidangmayum Naocha Sharma (35) from Bisnupur ward no. 8 a/p Sayang Bori Leirak was nabbed for extorting funds from various businesses.

In a separate drive, a joint operation led to the arrest of a RPF/PLA rebel, Waribam Ajoy Singh (25) @ Leishemba of Tellou Mayai Leikai, Imphal East. He was detained from Langol Meitei Leikai, Zone-III, under Lamphel PS, Imphal West. A mobile phone was seized from him.

In a separate operation the same day, security forces arrested one rebel each from PREPAK and PLA from the forest area between Border Pillars 73(10) and 73(11), under Moreh PS in Tengnoupal district. The arrested were: Thingnam Amujao Singh (57) @ Munal of Kakching Khunou Village, Kakching (PREPAK) and Kangjam Motea Meitei (33) @ Tamthouba of Gwaltabi Lamlai, Imphal East (PLA)

Earlier, one UKNA rebel was caught along the Sugnu–Chandel Road under Chandel PS. The individual, Boythong Khongsai (29) of Muolphei, Khoupum, Tamenglong, was in possession of the following: A mobile phone, Two SIM cards, Multiple ID cards including PAN, Aadhaar, and Voter ID, One ATM card and A Royal Enfield Classic (MN 02B - 0428) along with registration documents.

Security forces continue their intensified crackdown on insurgent activities in the region.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash