Security forces, in coordination with the Forest Department, intensified anti-narcotics and area domination operations across Manipur over the last two days, destroying 180 acres of illegal poppy cultivation and seizing a substantial quantity of opium in separate actions.
On February 4, a joint team destroyed around 180 acres of illegal poppy plantations in the Leingangching hill range under Litan police station in Ukhrul district. During the operation, 20 huts found at the plantation sites were also demolished. Officials said the huts were allegedly used by those involved in cultivating the illicit crop.
Earlier, on February 3, Manipur Police intercepted a Tata Dumper truck at Martyrs Park under Mao police station in Senapati district and arrested the driver, identified as Athikho Elokho (27), a resident of Kaibi village in Senapati. Police recovered 5.60 kg of opium from his possession. The seized items also included the vehicle bearing registration number NL-07AA-5740, a mobile phone, ₹5,200 in cash, and the driver’s Aadhaar and PAN cards.
Security agencies said search operations and area domination exercises are continuing in fringe and vulnerable areas across various districts to curb illegal activities and maintain public safety. As part of heightened security measures, a total of 103 nakas and checkpoints were set up across both hill and valley districts, though no detentions were reported during these checks.
Authorities also ensured uninterrupted movement of essential commodities. Around 130 vehicles carrying essential items were escorted safely along National Highway-37. Officials said strict security arrangements remain in force at vulnerable locations, with security convoys being provided along sensitive stretches to ensure free and safe movement of vehicles.
