Imphal, 21 March (HS): In a series of coordinated operations carried out across several districts of Manipur on Friday, security forces recovered a large cache of arms, ammunition and explosives, while one active cadre of a proscribed outfit was also apprehended, officials said on Saturday.
Acting on specific inputs, multiple search operations were launched in Thoubal district, leading to recoveries from areas under Khongjom and Nongpok Sekmai police stations. The seized items included bolt-action single barrel guns, carbines, pistols of different calibers, mortars, grenades and live ammunition. Similar recoveries were reported from Tentha Marongband and adjoining foothill regions, where additional firearms and ammunition were found concealed.
In Imphal West district, a major haul was made from Lamdeng and Kameng areas under Lamsang police station. The recovered items comprised an SLR with magazines, a modified sniper-type rifle, several pistols, ammunition, camouflage gear and other tactical equipment, indicating the presence of organized militant stockpiling.
Security forces also intensified operations in Kakching district, recovering INSAS and AK-series rifles, grenades, detonators, tube launching devices and communication equipment from Wabagai Turel Mamei area.
In Tengnoupal district, operations in multiple locations including SL Zougam, areas between Loisi and Saivom villages and near the international border at Yangoubung resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of IEDs, firearms, grenades and communication sets. All recovered IEDs were safely destroyed on the spot following standard operating procedures, officials confirmed.
Meanwhile, in a separate action, Manipur Police arrested an active cadre of the banned outfit KYKL, identified as Laishram Ashok Meitei (42), from Kakching district. A rifle, ammunition and other incriminating materials were recovered from his possession.
Further search operations in Imphal East district, including Champhai hill range, Keirao Wangkhem and Huitrubi areas, led to the recovery of additional country-made weapons, rifles, grenades, smoke bombs, ammunition and communication devices.
Officials stated that these coordinated recoveries highlight ongoing efforts to neutralize militant activities and ensure security in vulnerable areas of the state.-----------
Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash
