The Manipur Police, in coordination with Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), launched intensive search operations across multiple districts. The drive led to the destruction of three illegal bunkers and the seizure of a substantial arms cache from suspected insurgent hideouts.
The coordinated operations were carried out in Kangpokpi, Churachandpur, and Imphal East, which have recently been under heightened surveillance due to increased militant activity and illegal arms movement.
According to senior police officials, the objective was to dismantle fortified locations used by underground groups and to prevent further unrest in these sensitive areas.
Strategic Bunkers Destroyed
Three concealed bunkers were discovered in forested and elevated areas, strategically located to monitor police movement and serve as safe havens for armed groups. These bunkers were equipped with ration supplies, tactical gear, and communication devices, suggesting long-term occupancy and operational planning.
Officials confirmed that the destruction of these bunkers has significantly weakened local militant infrastructure and disrupted their logistical network.
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“These were not random hideouts but well-structured bunkers designed to provide strategic advantage and shelter to anti-social elements,” said a senior officer involved in the operation.
Major Arms and Ammunition Haul
Along with the bunker demolitions, the police recovered a major cache of arms and ammunition. The seized items include assault rifles, country-made weapons, grenades, 9mm pistols, and over 500 rounds of live ammunition. Tactical equipment such as walkie-talkies and camouflage gear were also found.
The arms cache has been sent for forensic examination to trace its origin and establish links with recent violence in the region. Investigators believe that the weapons may have been used in previous ambushes or were being stockpiled for future attacks.
Intelligence-Driven Operation
This multi-district operation was the result of weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering. Based on specific inputs, police teams launched simultaneous raids to neutralize potential threats. Drones, sniffer dogs, and metal detectors were employed during the search to uncover concealed weapons and hidden compartments within the bunkers.
The police assured that utmost care was taken to prevent civilian casualties and collateral damage during the operation. No injuries were reported among security personnel or residents.
Security Measures and Local Support
Following the operation, additional paramilitary forces have been stationed in vulnerable zones to maintain peace and deter retaliatory action. Mobile checkpoints, night patrols, and surveillance have been increased across affected areas.
Community leaders in the affected districts have expressed support for the security operations and urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement to ensure continued stability.
“We welcome the efforts of the police in making our area safer,” said a village elder from Churachandpur. “People here want peace and a return to normal life.”
Ongoing Counter-Insurgency Efforts
Manipur has been grappling with ethnic tensions and insurgent violence for over a year, leading to disruptions in civilian life and displacement in several districts. The latest search operation signals a more aggressive approach by state authorities to tackle deep-rooted security challenges.
Police officials have confirmed that more such operations are planned in the coming weeks, especially in districts bordering Myanmar and along the state’s hill-valley divide.
“Our message is clear — no room for armed groups in civilian spaces. We are committed to restoring lasting peace in Manipur,” said a spokesperson from the Manipur Police.
The successful dismantling of three insurgent bunkers and the seizure of a major arms cache marks a critical step in Manipur’s ongoing fight against militancy. With a renewed focus on intelligence-based policing and stronger local cooperation, the state is moving towards restoring law and order in its most troubled regions.
Authorities continue to urge citizens to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity as part of the collective effort to secure peace and stability in Manipur.