Imphal, March 21: Security forces conducted coordinated operations across Manipur on March 20, recovering a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives from both hill and valley districts, officials said.
The seizures included at least 29 firearms, around 50 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), grenades, and other war-like stores, indicating continued movement of weapons across vulnerable zones.
In Kakching district’s Wabagai Turel Mamei area, personnel recovered six firearms, including an AK-56 rifle, along with three grenades and ammunition. In Tengnoupal district, operations in Loisi and Saivom villages led to the seizure of 29 IEDs, five locally made hand grenades, electric detonators, and other explosive materials.
Further recoveries were made in Lamdeng and Kameng areas of Imphal West district, where 11 pistols, 85 rounds of live ammunition, camouflage bulletproof vests, and additional firearms were seized.
Separate operations in Tengnoupal, including areas under Machi police station and near the India-Myanmar border at Yangoubung village, resulted in the recovery of more IEDs, pistols, a grenade launcher, and communication equipment. All explosive devices were later destroyed in accordance with standard operating procedures.
In Thoubal district, security forces also recovered five firearms and ammunition from the foothills of Tekcham Sanji Ching.
Security operations have remained intensified since the outbreak of ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo in May 2023. The conflict has claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands, prompting continued search and combing operations to stabilise the situation.
