Imphal, 26 June (HS): Security forces in Manipur arrested five militants belonging to different insurgent outfits in separate operations conducted over the last 24 hours, while also recovering a cache of arms and apprehending a passenger with suspected ganja at Imphal Airport.

According to the official information on Friday, security forces arrested an alleged extortionist and active cadre of SOREPA, identified as Shamjetshabam Kokfai Meitei (26), from Kakching Khunou Umathel Mathak Leikai in Kakching district on Thursday. On the same day, an active cadre of KYKL, Konsam Oken Meitei alias Maijao alias Malemnganba alias Bode (36), was apprehended from Wangjing Sabal Leikai under Khongjom Police Station in Thoubal district.

In another operation on same day, security forces recovered a cache of weapons from an isolated stretch between Phayeng and Kharang Koireng/Tairenpokpi under Lamsang Police Station in Imphal West district. The seizure included three AK rifles, one 9 mm pistol, four magazines, 37 live rounds of ammunition of various calibres and two Baofeng wireless handsets.

Meanwhile, during a joint checking operation at Imphal Airport, personnel of the Airport Police and CISF recovered approximately 420 grams of suspected ganja from the luggage of an outbound passenger, identified as Herish Maibam (23) of Imphal East district. The accused was arrested along with the suspected contraband.

In another operation, security forces also arrested Wangkheirakpam Romeo Meitei alias Baruni alias Koubru (45), an alleged recruiter for PREPAK (PRO), from Top Makha Leikai under Porompat Police Station in Imphal East district.

In a separate operation the same day, an active cadre of NRFM, RK Bothoi alias Amit alias Sinthangamba (30), was arrested from Yairipok Kakmayai Lamkhai under Nongpok Sekmai Police Station in Thoubal district. A .32 pistol, a magazine and three live rounds were recovered from his possession.

The operations are part of the ongoing security drive against insurgent activities, illegal arms and drug trafficking in the state.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash