Imphal, 23 March (HS): The Manipur Police have arrested 14 cadres linked to the banned United National Liberation Front (UNLF–Koireng faction) during an operation in the Haokhong area under Nongpok Sekmai Police Station in Thoubal district.

According to the Manipur Police Headquarters informed on Monday, the arrests were made on Sunday. The arrested individuals have been identified as Namirakpam Kondum Meitei alias Lanheiba (46), Sorokhaibam Rosesh alias Kangleipuba alias Kilo-I (43), Takhelchangbam Rajendro Sharma alias Khaba (59), Yelam Ratan Singh alias Khamba (54), Ahantham Ratan Meitei alias Shiroi (30), Soyam Sanjeev (42), Toijam Karjit Singh (20), Pukhrihongbam Nongsaba Meitei alias Laidaba (18), Khanghujam Mison Meitei (17), Thoudam Muna Meitei alias Inao (19), Konsam Bebeto Meitei (28), Wahengbam Santosh Meitei (19), Kshetrimayum Dixon Singh (19) and Chingkham Romesh Singh alias Yaiphaba (30), hailing from different parts of Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur and Thoubal districts.

During the operation, security forces recovered two INSAS rifles, eight INSAS light machine gun magazines, five INSAS rifle magazines and 100 rounds of INSAS ammunition. In addition, cash amounting to ₹1 lakh, 12 mobile phones, five helmets, five backpacks and four four-wheeler vehicles were also seized.

Officials indicated that the arrests could deal a significant blow to the group’s local network in parts of the Imphal Valley and adjoining areas. The detained individuals are currently being interrogated to ascertain their roles and possible links to recent activities. Further investigation is underway, police said.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash