Imphal, 26 July (HS): Security forces in Manipur have arrested three active cadres of banned outfits during operations conducted in Imphal West and Thoubal districts in the last 24 hours, who are said to be involved in running an organized extortion racket in the state.

Police PRO said on Saturday that Sorokhaibam Inaocha Singh alias Romesh (47) was arrested from his residence at Salam Mamang Leikai in Patsoi police station area of Imphal West. He is a cadre of Kangleipak Communist Party (People's War Group) and has been involved in extortion operations in the area for a long time.

The items recovered from him include three mobile phones, one PAN card, five extortion notes bearing the letterhead of KCP (PWG) and two seal stamps bearing the initials KCP (PWG) and Revenue Officer (RO).

On Friday, Oinam Ranjita Devi alias Erai Laima (38) was detained in a raid at Oinam Sawombang Mayai Leikai in Thoubal district. She is attached to the RPF/PLA and was involved in extortion activities from schools, business establishments and transport associations.

The items seized from her include three mobile phones, one Aadhaar card and several notepads and documents containing names and contact details of victims.

In a third operation on the same day, Ahanthem Surjeet Singh (29) was arrested from Leirongthel Pitra area in Thoubal district. He is a resident of Wangjing SK Leikai and a PLA outfit. He has been involved not only in extortion but also in activities like recruiting new cadres and threatening people.

The interrogation of the three arrested accused is going on and security agencies are deeply investigating their network and contacts. According to the sources, more arrests may be made in the coming days.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash