Imphal, 19 February (HS): Security agencies in Manipur conducted coordinated operations across multiple districts in last 24 hours, leading to the seizure of a large cache of arms and explosives. Several rebels linked to banned insurgent outfits, along with a jail warder, were arrested during the crackdown.
In Imphal West district, a search operation in the Loitang Laikinthabi hill area under Sekmai Police Station resulted in the recovery of an AK-47 magazine, two .303 rifles, one double-barrel gun, one single-barrel rifle, three No. 36 HE grenades, and five improvised explosive devices (IEDs). In a separate operation under Wangoi Police Station at Hiyangthang Tarahai Awang Leikai foothills, security personnel seized three hand grenades, one high explosive bomb, 15 live rounds of various calibres, four empty 5.56 mm cartridges, one tube launcher, and two unidentified explosive materials marked ‘Green 90 AKFG’.
In Tengnoupal district, security forces raided Yangoubung area near BP-72 under Moreh Police Station and recovered two pistol magazines and two Chinese hand grenades. The grenades were safely defused and destroyed at the site.
Meanwhile, Manipur Police arrested 35-year-old Sahid Shah, a resident of Kairang Mayai Leikai in Imphal East district, who was posted as a warden at Manipur Central Jail, Sajiwa. He has been accused of illegally providing mobile phones to inmates, including those booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Multiple mobile phones and SIM cards were recovered from his possession. Preliminary investigation has also revealed financial transactions through his UPI account from within the jail premises. An FIR has been registered at Heingang Police Station and further investigation is underway.
In another development, active cadre Huiningsumba Suresh Meitei alias Kalambus alias Lion (34) of the KCP (PWG) was apprehended from his residence under Singjamei Police Station. A two-wheeler and a mobile phone were seized from him. Additionally, Haobam Bijoy alias Nanao alias Joy (37), an member of UNLF (Koireng), was arrested from Lamlongei Maning Leikai under Lamshang Police Station, and a mobile phone along with an Aadhaar card was recovered.
Security forces also arrested Laishram Basanta Singh alias Ratan alias Ethoi (53), a cadre linked to the RPF/PLA, from Khangabok area in Thoubal district. He has been accused of conducting recruitment drives for the outfit and passing information about security forces’ movements to his handlers.
Security agencies stated that detailed investigations are ongoing to trace the source of the seized arms and explosives and to dismantle the wider network involved.------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash
