Security forces arrested five insurgents belonging to two banned outfits in operations carried out on July 6. The move underscores renewed efforts by the state government to stabilize the volatile situation and curb insurgent activities.
Officials said these operations were part of a broader drive to maintain law and order amid lingering tensions across the state.
Two Banned Groups Targeted
The militants were apprehended in separate raids conducted by combined teams of the Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, and CRPF.
Security sources confirmed that three of those arrested belong to the proscribed People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Henceforth, the other two are affiliated with the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP).
“These arrests are crucial for maintaining peace and preventing further insurgent activities in sensitive regions,” said a senior police official.
Details of the Operations
According to police, the raids were conducted after receiving specific intelligence inputs regarding the movement and activities of the insurgents.
Arms, ammunition, and incriminating documents were recovered during the operations.
Security forces seized:
- One 9mm pistol with magazines
- 10 live rounds of ammunition
- Several mobile handsets suspected of being used for militant communication
- Propaganda materials linked to banned outfits
Crackdown on Vehicles and Traffic
In addition to militant arrests, the security crackdown in Manipur included extensive vehicle checks and fines imposed for violations.
Traffic police and security agencies set up checkpoints in several districts, focusing on suspicious vehicles and individuals.
Over 230 vehicles were checked during the crackdown. Moreover, fines were imposed for issues ranging from lack of proper documents to modified number plates and violation of traffic norms.
Heightened Security Across State
The arrests come amid heightened tensions in the state. Further, which has witnessed sporadic violence in recent months.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, while addressing media on Sunday, reiterated his government’s commitment to restore peace and normalcy.
“We are determined to dismantle militant networks and ensure the safety of every citizen,” the Chief Minister said.
Public Response and Support
Civil society groups and local communities welcomed the recent actions.
“It’s a relief to see decisive action against insurgents,” said a resident from Imphal East. “People have suffered for too long.”
Human rights activists, however, stressed that while maintaining security is essential, authorities must ensure that operations respect human rights and follow due process.
Previous Incidents Raise Concerns
Manipur has long been affected by militant activities and ethnic tensions.
Earlier this year, insurgents carried out several attacks in hill districts, leading to casualties among security forces and civilians.
Such incidents have prompted the government to adopt a zero-tolerance approach toward militancy.
Importance of the Crackdown
Analysts believe the security crackdown in Manipur serves as both a tactical operation and a strong message to militant groups operating in the state.
“This is a warning that the government is closely monitoring insurgent movements and won’t hesitate to act swiftly,” said political commentator L. Ningthoujam.
Call for Continued Vigilance
Moreover, despite the recent successes, security agencies caution that militant groups could regroup.
“People must remain alert and cooperate with law enforcement agencies,” an official urged.
The police have also appealed to citizens to report any suspicious activities.
Looking Ahead
With the insurgents now in custody, security forces are focusing on tracing the broader networks supporting these groups.
Further operations are likely in the days ahead as authorities aim to consolidate the gains achieved through this security crackdown in Manipur.
The state government has assured citizens that restoring peace and protecting public life remains their top priority.