Security forces in Manipur arrested three active insurgents on July 2, 2025, during a targeted operation in the Imphal East district. The Manipur militants arrested are reportedly linked to ongoing extortion rackets and planning of subversive acts across the valley region.
The arrests come at a critical time as tensions continue in various hill districts following months of unrest. The authorities believe that the timely capture has prevented possible attacks and disrupted a network of illegal fund collection.
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Militants Caught with Arms and Explosives
According to the Manipur Police, the three arrested men belong to a proscribed valley-based insurgent outfit. The operation was conducted jointly by the state police commandos and Assam Rifles based on intelligence inputs.
During the raid, security personnel recovered one 9mm pistol, several rounds of live ammunition, multiple extortion slips, and detonator components. Officials said the militants had recently collected money from local business owners by threatening them with violence.
Because of these developments, security forces are on high alert to trace additional members linked to the same cell.
Planned Attack Disrupted, Say Officials
Authorities stated that the trio had been planning to disrupt public movement in Imphal ahead of an upcoming political event. However, the successful operation neutralized their immediate threat.
SP Imphal East, K. Kabib, said, “We had credible intelligence that a group was trying to destabilize local markets through fear and extortion. Our team acted swiftly and managed to arrest three key operatives.”
As a result, the Manipur militants arrested are now under interrogation at a high-security facility. Officials believe they may have been working under the instructions of senior insurgent commanders operating from across the border.
Background of the Arrested Militants
Preliminary interrogation has revealed that the suspects had been previously involved in arms training in border zones. They reportedly re-entered the state last month and began operating in the commercial areas of Imphal and Thoubal.
Sources say one of the accused served as a recruiter for the banned group, while the other two handled logistics and communication.
Their arrest not only removes a threat but also provides crucial intelligence about the larger network behind ongoing extortion and insurgency in the region.
Rise in Insurgency-Linked Extortion Cases
In recent months, Manipur has seen a spike in extortion cases tied to insurgent groups. Small traders, construction contractors, and even farmers have reported receiving threats via handwritten notes or phone calls.
Local police stations across the valley have registered over 50 such complaints since April. Many fear reporting the threats due to potential retaliation.
With the Manipur militants arrested now in custody, law enforcement agencies hope to curb the growing atmosphere of fear and reclaim control over public spaces.
Government Calls for Vigilance and Cooperation
In the aftermath of the arrests, Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh praised the security forces for their swift action. He urged citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious activity in their areas.
“The government is committed to peace and order,” Singh said. “We will not allow a few elements to disturb the stability we are working hard to restore.”
Additionally, the Home Department has asked district administrations to step up community policing and increase patrolling in known insurgent hotspots.
Counter-Insurgency Measures Stepped Up
This incident follows several high-profile raids conducted in recent weeks targeting armed groups. Security forces have recovered arms caches, wireless devices, and even satellite phones from various hideouts in the hills and foothills.
The Manipur militants arrested this week form part of a wider crackdown on anti-national elements. Intelligence sharing between state police, paramilitary forces, and military intelligence has intensified.
Moreover, coordination with civil society groups and local youth clubs has helped build trust and encourage community-based monitoring.
What Lies Ahead?
As investigations continue, security agencies are preparing for a follow-up operation to locate other operatives associated with the same group. Officials are also looking into the funding sources used by the arrested militants.
Meanwhile, legal proceedings have been initiated under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Arms Act. Authorities plan to fast-track the judicial process to send a strong message to other such groups.
Clearly, the Manipur militants arrested serve as a reminder of the volatile situation in certain pockets of the state. Yet, the quick response from law enforcement highlights the government’s preparedness to deal with emerging threats.
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