Imphal, Jan 7: Security forces in Manipur have arrested two women allegedly associated with the banned People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (Prepak) for their suspected role in abducting three minor children with the intent of recruiting them into the outfit, police said on Wednesday.
The arrests were made from the Khangabok area of Thoubal district on Monday following an investigation into the disappearance of the children from Kakching Khunou Ngaikhong Leikai in Kakching district a day earlier. A senior police officer said the accused are active women cadres of the proscribed organisation.
During follow-up operations, the three minors were traced and rescued from Uchiwa Awang Leikai in Imphal West district. Police confirmed that the children have since been safely reunited with their parents. A vehicle allegedly used in carrying out the abduction was also seized as part of the operation.
Officials said further investigation is underway to identify and apprehend other individuals who may have been involved in the incident, adding that efforts are being intensified to dismantle recruitment networks of outlawed groups.
The arrests come amid heightened security measures across Manipur, where counter-insurgency and search operations have been stepped up following the outbreak of ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in May 2023. The prolonged unrest has claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands.
The state remains under President’s Rule after the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, with the Manipur Legislative Assembly placed under suspended animation despite its term running until 2027. Authorities have maintained that strict action will continue against banned organisations attempting to exploit the volatile situation, particularly through the recruitment of minors.
