Imphal, 26 February (HS): On the appeal of Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the surrender of weapons and explosives by the people in Manipur is continuing. 87 types of weapons, ammunition and other military material were voluntarily surrendered by the public to the police and security forces in various districts of Manipur. Police said on Wednesday that these weapons were handed over to various police stations and security agencies in Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kangpokpi, Churachandpur and Jiribam districts.

In Imphal West district, 12 CMGs, two .303 rifles, two SLR rifles, four 12 bore single barrel guns, one IED, 32 nos. .303 bullets and 33 SLR bullets along with other military equipment were deposited.

In Churachandpur district, six SLR rifles, three .303 rifles, one INSAS 5.56 LMG, one M-79 UBGL gun, one heavy country-made mortar and four country-made rockets were surrendered.

Other military material including SMC carbines, tear gas guns, pistols, stun grenades, 36 HE hand grenades, 155 bullets of 5.56x30mm, nine helmets and eight BP covers were handed over at Porompat and Sagolmung police stations in Imphal East district.

In Bishnupur district, .303 rifles, SBBL and DBBL guns, MMG carbines, 7.62mm and .303 bullets, hand grenades, smoke grenades, eight BP vests and four assault vests were deposited at Nambol, Moirang and Phougkachao Ikhai police stations.

One SLR, three sniper rifles, one .32 pistol, one .38 revolver, one 81mm mortar, two mortar shells, 175 .303 live rounds, nine BP jackets and seven jungle boots were surrendered in Thoubal district.

One AK-47 rifle, one .303 rifle, one Smith & Wesson revolver, three improvised mortars, nine mortar bombs and 50 7.62mm live bullets were handed over at New Kethalmanbi police station in Kangpokpi district.

Three double barrel guns, one 9mm carbine, one anti-riot gas gun, one 36 HE hand grenades, 171 pieces of 7.62mm AK bullets, three helmets and six BP jackets were deposited in Jiribam district.

The surrender of these weapons has been described by the government and security agencies as an important step towards restoring peace.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash