Imphal,16 December (HS): Security Forces carried out a series of search operations across hill ranges in Imphal East and Thoubal districts in the last 24 hours, leading to the recovery of a large cache of arms, ammunition and explosive materials from different locations.

During an operation in the Chanung hill range under Sagolmang Police Station in Imphal East district, the forces recovered two .303 rifles—one fitted with a scope—along with several 12-bore single-barrel breech-loading guns, locally made weapons, INSAS and LMG magazines and assorted ammunition. The haul also included live rounds of different calibres, a hand grenade without detonator, a 2-inch high-explosive mortar shell (MK-1) and two bulletproof jacket covers.

In a separate operation conducted the same day in the Changsang hill range, also under Sagolmang Police Station, Security Forces seized a country-made 9 mm pistol, a pistol magazine loaded with live rounds, ammunition of various types, an INSAS LMG magazine, fired cartridge cases of AK and SLR rifles and a pistol holster.

Meanwhile, another recovery was made from the Tentha Tuwaband Irel Ching area under Khongjom Police Station in Thoubal district. The seized items included multiple 12-bore guns, an SMG carbine with magazine, modified rifles and pistols, hand grenades, magazines of INSAS LMG and SLR and a substantial quantity of ammunition. Anti-riot equipment such as rubber bullet shells and tear smoke shells were also recovered from the site.

Security officials said the recoveries were part of ongoing efforts to curb the presence of illegal arms and maintain law and order in the region. Further investigation is underway to trace the source and intended use of the seized weapons and explosives.---------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash