Security forces recover arms, arrest militants and smugglers in Manipur

Security forces continued extensive search operations and area domination exercises in the fringe and vulnerable areas across various districts of Manipur, leading to the recovery of arms and ammunition, and several arrests linked to militant, criminal, and smuggling activities.
During a search operation at Chagem Lokchao, Uyumpok under Sagolmang Police Station in Imphal East district, security forces recovered a .303 rifle with magazine, two 5.56 INSAS rifles with magazines, and a 9mm pistol with magazine.
In intelligence-based operations, three active cadres of KCP (People’s Support Group) were arrested on August 28. Mutum Leishemba Meitei alias Pari (25) of Lamdeng Khunou, Imphal West, was apprehended from Minuthong in Imphal East for his involvement in extortion activities. Based on his disclosure, two more cadres—a mother and son duo identified as Maibam Indira Devi (50) and Ronaldo Maibam (25) of Hiyanglam Awang Leikai, Kakching district—were arrested. Six mobile handsets and two Aadhaar cards were recovered from their possession.
In another development, Manipur Police detained Moirangthem Sunderlal Meitei (45) of Khurai Angom Leikai along with 17 packets of fake cigarettes at Mantripukhri Check Post, Imphal East. Subsequently, five more persons were arrested from different parts of Imphal West with 326 packets of fake cigarettes. They were identified as Rohit Pal (23), Premchand (33), Rajesh Kumar (30), Ram Babu Kumar (20), and Sanjay Kumar Sas (30), all originally from Bihar and currently residing in Imphal. Following due procedure, they were later released by the Executive Magistrate, Imphal East.
On August 29, two drug smugglers, Ms. B. Dinah (42) and Ms. H. Khune (45), both residents of Tunggam Afi village under Tungjoy Police Station in Senapati district, were arrested at Mao Gate Police Check Post. Police seized 113 grams of brown sugar packed in eight soap cases and two mobile phones from their possession.
On the same day, another drug smuggler identified as Paogoulal Touthang (22) of T. Gamnom village, Kangpokpi district, was arrested from Hengbung Police Outpost under Senapati Police Station. A large haul of 205 soap cases of brown sugar weighing 2.816 kg, cash amounting to Rs. 2.5 lakh, a four-wheeler, a mobile handset with two SIM cards, and identification documents including Aadhaar, PAN, and driving license were seized from him.
In its continued drive against motor vehicle offences, Manipur Police removed tinted films from nine vehicles on August 28.
As part of its community policing initiatives, the police conducted a Cybercrime Awareness Programme at Keinou High School in Bishnupur district. The programme featured interactive sessions with students and teachers, a slogan-writing competition, and concluded with participants taking a pledge to prevent cybercrime.
Meanwhile, movement of 137 vehicles carrying essential items along NH-37 was facilitated under strict security convoy arrangements. Security has been tightened in all vulnerable stretches to ensure safe passage.
A total of 113 checkpoints were set up across hill and valley districts, although no detentions were reported from these. Authorities have appealed to the public not to believe in rumours or false videos circulated on social media. Citizens have been urged to verify such content with the Central Control Room at 9233522822. The police have also cautioned that uploading or sharing fake posts will invite legal action. Additionally, an appeal has been made for the immediate return of looted arms, ammunition, and explosives to the nearest police or security forces.