Imphal, 21 May (HS): In a major crackdown on illegal arms trafficking, Manipur Police along with joint security forces recovered 67 weapons and a huge cache of ammunition during a series of operations in the Lamdeng area under Lamshang Police Station. Four alleged cadres linked to the proscribed UNLF (P) outfit were also arrested in connection with the case.

According to the information given in a press conference on Thursday, the operation began on May 20 after security agencies received specific intelligence inputs regarding efforts to sell looted arms and ammunition in the Lamshang region. Acting on the information, security personnel launched a special operation and apprehended two active UNLF (P) cadres identified as Heishnam Thomas Singh (29) from Mayang Imphal Kokchai and Arambam Tomtom Singh (29) of Lamshang Heibongpokpi Mayai Leikai.

During the arrest, forces recovered one INSAS Light Machine Gun (LMG), three INSAS LMG magazines and 14 live rounds of ammunition from their possession. Police stated that during the operation, associates of the accused allegedly opened fire on the security team, leading to a brief exchange of fire. Subsequently, two more persons — Ningthoujam Rakesh Singh and Chingakham Mahesh Singh — were detained for allegedly attacking security personnel.

Preliminary interrogation reportedly revealed that the accused had come to sell the seized weapon following instructions from self-styled Lance Corporal Naorem Bijoy alias Macha of the UNLF (P). Investigators also suspect their involvement in earlier cases related to the sale of looted arms and ammunition.

Based on further leads obtained during questioning, a joint team of Manipur Police, Assam Rifles and CRPF conducted a cordon-and-search operation at an alleged unauthorised UNLF (P) camp in Lamdeng. During the raid, security forces recovered 29 firearms, including AK-series rifles, M-series rifles, pistols and other weapons.

In a follow-up operation carried out on May 21, joint forces seized another 38 weapons along with heavy military-grade equipment. The recovered items included AK-series rifles, M-series rifles, a sniper rifle, carbines, shotguns, mortars, an RPG-7 launcher, an anti-drone jammer and a large quantity of explosives.

Police have appealed to the public to share any information regarding looted or illegally possessed weapons with the nearest police station, stating that public cooperation is crucial for restoring peace and maintaining security in the state.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash