Imphal, Jan 23: Manipur Police have arrested three men in connection with a fatal hit-and-run accident on National Highway 102 that claimed the life of a 56-year-old woman and left her husband injured, achieving a major breakthrough within 24 hours of the incident. The arrests were made on January 22 following swift investigative efforts by the police.
The accident took place on January 21 near Boroi Makhong, under the jurisdiction of Singjamei police station. The victim, Moirangthem (O) Jibanlata Leima of Thongju Nepram Leirak, died on the spot after being struck by a vehicle, while her husband sustained injuries and was rushed for medical treatment. The incident triggered a prompt investigation, leading police to identify and track down those allegedly involved.
Based on collected evidence, police apprehended Davidson Thokchom, 23, from Bashikhong, Robertson Naorem, 24, from Naorem Leikai, and Rohit Okram, 23, of Singjamei Chingamakha. The vehicle suspected to have been used in the crime, a silver Alto K10 bearing registration number MN-06L-6869, was also recovered. Officials said further investigation is underway to establish individual roles and complete legal formalities.
In a separate development the same day, Manipur Police arrested two suspected extortionists from Motbung Bazaar in Kangpokpi district. The accused, Kaikhochon Kipgen, 29, of Saparmeina village, and Kaisei Khongsai, 22, originally from Karbi Anglong in Assam and currently residing in Jangnom village, were taken into custody under Gamnom Saparmeina police station.
Meanwhile, security forces intensified operations against illegal arms and violence across the state. During a search operation in Uchol village and adjoining foothill areas under Andro police station in Imphal East district, a substantial cache of weapons, explosives and communication equipment was recovered. The seizure included firearms, hand grenades, live ammunition, improvised explosive devices, wireless communication sets and other military-grade accessories.
Officials said area domination and search operations are continuing as part of a broader strategy to curb organised crime, illegal arms circulation and violence in Manipur, while investigations into all the recent arrests remain ongoing.
