Imphal, 05 June (HS): Security forces and Manipur Police carried out a series of coordinated operations across the state over last 24 hours, leading to the recovery of a large cache of arms and ammunition, seizure of suspected narcotics and the arrest of several active insurgent cadres linked to different militant outfits.

During a search operation at Kameng Mamang Leikai and adjoining areas under Lamsang Police Station in Imphal West district, security personnel recovered an AK rifle, an INSAS rifle, six bolt-action single-barrel guns, nine pistols, an INSAS LMG magazine, 13 rounds of AK ammunition, four rounds of INSAS ammunition and 310 rounds of .380 ammunition.

In a separate operation at Imphal International Airport, security forces apprehended two passengers from Kiyamgei Oinam Loukon in Imphal East district and seized approximately 4.09 kg of suspected Heroin No. 4 from their possession. The arrested individuals were identified as Syed Sabir Ali (26) and Khutheibam Sabir Ahmed (24).

Meanwhile, acting on the basis of an ongoing investigation, Manipur Police arrested two women cadres of the MRA (Manipur Revolutionary Army). The arrested cadres were identified as Phijam Sonia Devi alias Thoibi alias Lukhoibi (25) and Yurembam Meiteileima alias Machan alias Abemma (23), both presently residing at Takyel Lane No. 9 in Imphal West district.

In another crackdown on insurgent activities, police arrested an active MRA cadre, Khangembam Amitkumar Singh alias Lamjingba (39), from Chinga Makhong Crossing under Singjamei Police Station in Imphal West district.

Security forces also arrested an active cadre of the URF, Angom Imo Meitei alias Father (59), from Kangla Sangomshang Crossing under Lamlai Police Station in Imphal East district. Following the arrest, a search conducted near the Iril River bank at Sawombung Khunjao Bridge led to the recovery of an SBBL rifle, 17 cartridges, five MK-80 bombs, a wireless communication set, two tear gas shells, a bulletproof jacket with plates and a bulletproof helmet.

In a further operation, security forces apprehended an active cadre of the KYKL, identified as Sanasam Samson (26), from the Huidrom Natum Ching area under Lamlai Police Station in Imphal East district. A search of his possession resulted in the seizure of a 36 HE hand grenade, four empty cartridges, four fired projectiles and other incriminating materials.

Officials said the operations form part of ongoing efforts to curb insurgent activities, recover illegal weapons and dismantle networks involved in militancy and narcotics trafficking across the state.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash