Imphal, March 15: Security forces in Manipur conducted a series of coordinated operations on March 14, arresting an active woman cadre of the proscribed insurgent outfit People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak / People’s Liberation Army (RPF/PLA), along with several other individuals allegedly involved in illegal arms and narcotics activities.
In one of the operations, security forces apprehended Khangembam Khumanthem Auna Devi alias Ibeyaima (43) from the Sawombung Forest Gate under Lamlai Police Station in Imphal East district. A resident of Kumbi Ishing Chaiba Leikai in Bishnupur district, she was identified as an active cadre of the RPF, the political wing of the PLA. Officials said she was allegedly involved in recruiting cadres for the banned outfit. A mobile phone was seized from her possession.
In a separate operation the same day, security personnel arrested three individuals from the Lilong Bazar along National Highway 102 under Lilong Police Station in Thoubal district.
The arrested individuals were identified as Md Abdul Gafar alias Thoi (22) of Kiyamgei Takhok Makha, Md Boicha (23) of Lilong Leihaokhong, and Kh Akip alias Aki (23) Manan of Kiyamgei Takhok Makha.
During the operation, security forces recovered a cache of illegal items including a 9 mm pistol with a magazine, seven live rounds of ammunition, approximately 494 grams of heroin brown sugar, four mobile phones and a Hyundai Creta.
Authorities suspect the trio was involved in illegal arms possession and narcotics trafficking, though investigations are underway to determine possible links with organised networks.
In another crackdown, security forces arrested an active cadre of the proscribed insurgent group People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (Progressive), also known as PREPAK (Pro). The accused, Thiyam Athoi Meitei alias Athouba (24), was apprehended from the Wangkhei Andro Parking under Porompat Police Station.
He is a resident of Chanam Sandrok Mayai Leikai under Irilbung Police Station.
Security officials said the arrests were part of intensified operations aimed at curbing insurgency and dismantling networks involved in illegal arms and narcotics trafficking in the state.
