IT News
Imphal/Guwahati, May 27:
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a supplementary chargesheet against three residents of Mizoram for their alleged involvement in smuggling arms and explosives to insurgent groups operating in Manipur, a state grappling with prolonged ethnic violence.
The accused—Vanlaldailova, Lalmuanpuia, and Lalrinchhunga alias Albert—were arrested on December 6, 2024, following coordinated raids on their homes, which led to the seizure of illegal firearms and explosive materials.
Investigations revealed that the trio was part of a broader arms trafficking network responsible for supplying weapons that have contributed to the ongoing unrest in Manipur. Their activities, according to the NIA, played a significant role in fuelling insurgency and obstructing peace efforts in the region.
Vanlaldailova, who possessed a legitimate license to deal in arms, allegedly misused his credentials to divert weapons illegally, working in tandem with previously chargesheeted individuals Lalngaihawma and Lalmuanawma. Meanwhile, Lalmuanpuia and Lalrinchhunga assisted in procuring, transporting, and distributing the weapons. Lalrinchhunga is also believed to have engaged in unauthorized repair and manufacturing of firearms.
The case was initially registered in December 2023, with chargesheets previously filed against key figures, including Lalngaihawma in July 2024 and Solomona in November. On May 26, the NIA formally submitted the latest chargesheet to the Special Court at Patiala House, New Delhi, under provisions of the Indian Penal Code, the Arms Act, the Explosive Substances Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Authorities stated that the accused not only supported insurgent activities but also helped raise funds with knowledge that the proceeds would be used for procuring arms, posing a direct threat to public safety and national integrity.
The NIA continues its investigation, aiming to dismantle networks involved in the illegal supply of arms across the Northeast, especially those undermining stability in sensitive regions like Manipur.