Security forces in Manipur arrested 18 militants from banned outfits across several districts and seized arms and ammunition in the past 24 hours. The operation targeted groups involved in extortion and threats against cultural events.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the arrests occurred in Bishnupur, Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal and Kakching districts. The militants belonged to the People’s Liberation Army and its wing Revolutionary People’s Front, Kangleipak Communist Party, People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak, Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup, and United Kuki National Army. IANS reported that authorities recovered two single-barrel guns, five pistols with one magazine, one air pistol, 11 magazines, five 12-bore cartridges, 45 rounds of AK ammunition, three high-explosive grenades, six detonators, five camouflage caps, and one camouflage helmet. Additional items included several Aadhaar cards and mobile phones.
In a separate joint operation in Imphal West, forces recovered ammunition and other materials. The actions form part of ongoing crackdowns, with search operations and area domination exercises continuing in fringe, mixed-population, and vulnerable zones. A total of 113 checkpoints operate across valley and hill districts to monitor suspicious movements and vehicles. Escorts protect trucks carrying essentials along the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway.
Manipur Police registered five cases in Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching districts over threats by insurgent groups against Sumang Leela Association performers and others at the Manipur Sangai Festival 2025. The event, held after a two-year gap from November 21 to 30 at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal, drew protests from internally displaced people and groups like the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity, who called for a boycott and strikes. They argued the festival signaled restored normalcy, demanding returns from relief camps. Investigations proceed to identify suspects, with four militants arrested so far in these cases. Police pledged strict measures against disruptions to cultural and public events.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
