Security forces arrest active PLA cadre, seize weapons cache in Manipur operations
Imphal, May 27
Security forces in Manipur have intensified operations across the state, resulting in significant recoveries of arms and ammunition, the destruction of illegal bunkers, and the arrest of several active cadres from various underground organisations.
On Tuesday, security forces conducted a major recovery operation in the forest area of Hengkot village under Churachandpur Police Station. According to a press release, the cache included one MK-II rifle, one AK-47 rifle, one .303 rifle, one 12-bore rifle, one country-made .22 rifle, one country-made 12-bore rifle, one country-made .22 sniper rifle, two SBML guns, and one SBBL gun.
It also included ammunition and explosives - 13 empty 12-bore cartridges, three live 12-bore rounds, and five IEDs.
Other gears include two wireless handsets, a country-made Lathod launcher, two magazine pouches, two pairs of camouflage jungle boots, and one camouflage hat.
Moreover, security forces operating within the jurisdiction of Litan Police Station in Ukhrul district destroyed three illegal bunkers--one at Patleijang village and two at Roudei (T.M. Kasom) village. The recovery at these sites included one 5kg IED, two pompi guns, two BAOFENG radio sets with a charger, three 12-bore live cartridges, and 12 empty shell cases of various calibres.
In intelligence-based operations aimed at curbing extortion and criminal activities, security forces made several key arrests.
On Sunday, two active cadres were apprehended near Forest Gate, Mayai Keithel, under Nongpok Sekmai Police Station: Changubam Nganba Meitei (21) of the proscribed Revolutionary People's Front (RPF)/People's Liberation Army (PLA) and a juvenile associated with the National Revolutionary Front Manipur (NRFM).
On Monday, Waikhom Shanta Singh (32), an active PLA cadre, was arrested in the Nongada Kameng area under the Lamlai Police Station. Security forces also arrested Ayekpam Dharmendra Singh (48), an S/S Captain of RPF/PLA, from his residence under Irilbung Police Station. A mobile phone and an Aadhaar card were seized during the arrest.
Thingujam Gulapi Singh (45), an active People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) cadre, was also apprehended in the Kakwa Lilando Lampak area under the Singjamei Police Station. Authorities recovered a mobile phone, an Aadhaar card, and a scooter from him.
Meanwhile, the state's overall law-and-order situation remained normal over the last 24 hours. Authorities confirmed the safe movement of 365 vehicles carrying essential items along NH-37, supported by strict security measures and convoys in sensitive areas. A total of 114 checkpoints (Nakas) have been established across hill and valley districts.
The Manipur Police have appealed to the public to disregard rumours and verify the authenticity of circulating videos or audio clips by contacting the Central Control Room at 9233522822.
Officials further cautioned that the circulation of fake posts on social media will face legal action, and urged citizens to surrender any looted arms, ammunition, or explosives to the nearest police station or security forces immediately.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally, some real action! The people of Manipur have suffered enough from extortion and violence. Arresting PLA and PREPAK cadres is a positive step. But I worry about the impact on innocent lives—hope the operations are precise and respectful of local sentiments. 🤞
Impressive recoveries—AK-47, IEDs, and wireless sets are no joke. The security forces deserve appreciation for their tireless work. However, I’m concerned about the involvement of juveniles in these groups. We need to invest in education and job creation to prevent radicalization. 🛡️
As an outsider watching from the US, this is worrying. The scale of weapons suggests deep-rooted militancy. I hope India’s approach balances security with humanitarian concerns—long-term peace requires trust and development, not just arrests. Thoughts from locals?
Good job by the police and security forces! But I’m skeptical about the "normal" law-and-order situation—Manipur has a long history of tensions. The safe movement of essential supplies is promising, but we need sustained efforts. Also, why do these groups still find support? 🤔
It’s heartening that security forces are cracking down on illegal arms and bunkers. The plea to surrender looted weapons is smart—reducing violence through voluntary compliance. I just hope these operations don’t escalate into civilian casualties. Peace should be the ultimate goal. 🙏
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.