In a series of coordinated counter-insurgency operations, security forces in Manipur have recovered a cache of arms and arrested multiple insurgents affiliated with various banned outfits, including PREPAK, PLA, and KCP, across different districts of the state.
On November 1, acting on specific intelligence inputs, a joint team launched a search operation between Luwangsangol and Phaileng villages under Gamnom Sapermeina Police Station in Kangpokpi district. The operation led to the recovery of five locally made bolt-action single-barrel guns, 11 cartridges, two Baofeng wireless sets, three pairs each of combat shoes and sneakers, two military belts, and several combat jackets and tactical apparel.
On the same day, an active PREPAK cadre, identified as Pebam Nikesh alias Nanao alias Mitlang alias Poirei (28), was arrested from his residence at Kwakeithel Mayai Koibi Ningthoujam Leikai under Lamphel Police Station, Imphal West. Security forces seized one mobile phone with two SIM cards, along with identification documents including a PAN and Aadhaar card.
Earlier, on October 31, two active RPF/PLA cadres and a juvenile were arrested from separate locations. The arrested individuals were identified as Wangkhem Reeshav Singh alias Bihari (22) of Changangei Awang Leikai, arrested from Minuthong under Imphal Police Station, Imphal West, and Poireisana Yumnam alias Poirei (24) of Top Awang Leikai, arrested from his residence under Porompat Police Station, Imphal East. Three mobile phones and an Aadhaar card were recovered from their possession.
In another operation linked to an earlier explosion case at Lamdeng Khunou under Lamsang Police Station, Manipur Police apprehended an active KCP (Ibungo Ngangom) cadre, identified as Ronaldo Maibam (25) of Hiyanglam Awang Leikai, Kakching district, and seized a red Hyundai Santro car from him.
Officials said the series of operations form part of an intensified crackdown on insurgent networks and illegal arms activities across the state. Investigations are underway to determine potential linkages among the arrested individuals and their respective organisations.
