Imphal, March 24: Security forces in Manipur have arrested at least 26 active cadres linked to multiple banned outfits in a series of coordinated operations conducted over two days, signalling an intensified drive to dismantle insurgent networks across border and interior districts.
According to Manipur Police, on March 23, ten cadres of the proscribed PREPAK (RA), including five juveniles, were apprehended along the Indo-Myanmar border between pillar numbers 77 and 82 under Moreh Police Station in Tengnoupal district. The arrested individuals were identified as operatives from Bishnupur, Kakching, Imphal West and Imphal East districts. Officials said the juveniles are being processed in accordance with provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act.
In a separate operation on March 22, security forces arrested 14 cadres of the banned UNLF (K) from the Haokhong area under Nongpok Sekmai Police Station in Thoubal district. Authorities described the group as comprising both senior and mid-level operatives active across the Imphal Valley.
A significant cache of arms and logistical materials was recovered from the UNLF (K) cadres, including two INSAS rifles, multiple magazines, 100 rounds of ammunition, ₹1 lakh in cash, 12 mobile phones, five helmets, five backpacks and four four-wheeler vehicles. Officials said the seizure indicates an organised operational structure with logistical support.
Further operations on March 23 led to the arrest of a cadre of KCP (Apunba), identified as Athokpam Bikramjit Singh alias Tolamu (22), from his residence under Lamlai Police Station in Imphal East district. Another KCP (Nongdrenkhomba) operative, Arambam Ingocha Meitei alias Achouba (26), was also apprehended from the Phaknung area.
Additionally, on March 22, one cadre of KYKL, Pebam Sanjit Singh alias Lemba (41), was arrested from Nambol in Bishnupur district.
Officials said the coordinated crackdown reflects a sustained intelligence-driven approach to curb insurgent activity, particularly along the sensitive Indo-Myanmar border. Security forces remain on high alert, with further operations expected as efforts continue to neutralise militant networks in the region.
