Imphal, 27 July (HS): Manipur Police and security forces recovered 29 firearms, a large quantity of ammunition and explosives during a search operation in Imphal East district, while a separate anti-narcotics operation led to the arrest of a suspected drug trafficker with 2.5 kg of suspected brown sugar in Churachandpur district.

According to police, the operation was launched at around 6:15 pm on Sunday after receiving specific intelligence about the movement of armed miscreants in the Wakha Ching area of Imphal East. The search was led by Dr. S. Ibomcha Singh, IPS, Commandant of 6th IRB and in-charge of the Special Commando Unit, Khabeisoi.

During an extensive search in the jungle area of Wakha Hill, opposite Shelloi Langmai Composite Farm, security personnel recovered four plastic bags containing 29 firearms. The haul included five SLR rifles, four INSAS rifles, two AK Ghatak rifles, one INSAS LMG, six .303 rifles, three double-barrel guns, seven single-barrel guns and one pump-action gun.

Security forces also seized one lathode bomb, 530 rounds of .303 ammunition, 64 rounds of 7.62 mm SLR ammunition, 19 INSAS rounds, six 5.56 mm carbine rounds, 40 drill cartridges and 17 rifle chargers. Police said further search operations are continuing in the area.

In a separate operation on the same day, Manipur Police arrested Letmintgang Haolai (33) from the Tuibong area under Churachandpur Police Station. The accused was found in possession of 2.5 kg of suspected brown sugar and a two-wheeler, both of which were seized. Further investigation is underway.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash