Imphal, Feb 23: Security forces in Manipur arrested an active cadre of the banned RPF/PLA outfit from his residence in Imphal East district on February 22, officials said.
The arrested individual was identified as Khundom Momocha Meitei alias Yaiphaba, 31, a resident of Yourabung Khunou under Lamlai Police Station. He is accused of operating as an extortionist for the proscribed group. A mobile phone was seized from his possession during the operation.
Authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the alleged extortion activities. However, the arrest is seen as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle insurgent networks operating in the state.
In a separate operation a day earlier, Manipur Police apprehended a suspected drug peddler from Thoubal district. The accused, Md. Anash, 29, a resident of Lilong Tharaorok under Lilong Police Station, was arrested from his residence.
Police seized 730 bottles of Codeine Phosphate Syrup from his possession. The prescription medication is frequently misused as a narcotic substance across parts of the Northeast.
The back-to-back arrests underline sustained efforts by Manipur’s security establishment to curb insurgency-linked extortion and the illicit drug trade—two longstanding challenges confronting the state.
