Imphal, 15 May (HS): Security forces in Manipur have intensified their crackdown on insurgent activities, leading to the arrest of a rebel of the banned KCP (Taibangnganba) outfit in connection with recent firing incidents that triggered panic in parts of the state.
According to the Manipur Police Headquarters, the arrested rebel has been identified as Khongbantabam Chinglemba Meitei alias Nao (35). He was apprehended on May 13 from the Yairipok Lamkhai area under Thoubal Police Station in Thoubal district. Originally a resident of Lamsang Lamdeng Khunou and presently staying at Thoubal Awang Leikai, the accused was allegedly working as an active cadre of the insurgent group. A mobile phone was seized from his possession during the operation.
The arrest comes amid an ongoing investigation into multiple firing incidents reported in the state over the past few days. Police sources said unidentified armed men opened indiscriminate fire near the border areas of Jouzangtek and Nungsai-II villages under Khoupum Police Station in Noney district on May 13. The sudden attack claimed the life of a civilian, while two others sustained serious injuries.
In another development linked to a firing case registered on May 7 under Heingang Police Station in Imphal East district, investigators recovered five live 9 mm cartridges, four empty shells, and a bullet fragment from the spot near a residential gate at Tangkham Awang Leikai.
During the course of investigation, police first detained a minor on May 11. Based on inputs gathered during interrogation, another accused, identified as Usham Roshan Singh alias Naobi (28) of Haraorou Awang Leikai in Imphal East district, was arrested on May 12.
Investigators believe the accused persons, along with their associates, were allegedly involved in creating fear and intimidation through firing incidents to extort money from local residents. Authorities said further investigation is underway to identify and trace other individuals linked to the network.-----------
Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash
