A major breakthrough was achieved by Manipur security forces after a rocket recovered in Churachandpur raised alarm about growing militant activities in the region. The recovery of the nine-foot-long country-made rocket and the arrest of two insurgent cadres in separate raids have intensified focus on the escalating threat of armed groups in the hill districts.
Officials said the improvised rocket was found hidden in a forested area near Churachandpur town. Based on intelligence inputs, a joint team of Assam Rifles and state police launched a search operation early Monday. After hours of combing, the team discovered the weapon buried beneath loose soil, wrapped in tarpaulin sheets.
Preliminary inspection revealed that the locally assembled rocket was designed for long-range attack, indicating possible plans for large-scale violence. Experts from the bomb disposal squad were called to safely defuse and transport the device to a secure facility.
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Arrests follow major recovery of arms
The rocket recovered in Churachandpur has brought renewed attention to the ongoing insurgency and the flow of illegal arms in Manipur. In a related development, two insurgent cadres belonging to separate outfits were arrested during raids conducted across the district. One suspect was apprehended from Tuibong area, while another was caught from New Lamka.
Security officials said the arrests were made after receiving credible intelligence about movements of armed men in civilian areas. During interrogation, the detainees reportedly provided clues about hideouts and potential arms caches linked to their groups. The police are now investigating whether the recovered rocket was part of their stockpile.
Both accused have been booked under relevant sections of the Arms Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Authorities are also verifying their past involvement in extortion, ambush planning, and cross-border arms smuggling.
Authorities suspect cross-border links behind rocket recovered in Churachandpur
According to security sources, the rocket recovered in Churachandpur may have connections to militant networks operating across the Indo-Myanmar border. The proximity of Churachandpur to the international boundary has often made it a corridor for trafficking arms and explosives.
Officials said they are not ruling out the possibility that the weapon or its components were smuggled from Myanmar. The area’s dense forests and porous borders have long served as a route for insurgents moving between camps in both countries. Intelligence agencies are now collaborating with central forces to trace the supply chain and identify those responsible for assembling the rocket.
Experts have expressed concern that such powerful locally assembled weapons pose a grave threat to peace efforts in Manipur. They believe the discovery underscores the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and cross-border coordination.
Rocket recovered in Churachandpur reveals rising insurgent capabilities
The rocket recovered in Churachandpur is not the first sign of increasing insurgent sophistication in Manipur. Over the past year, forces have seized several improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and handmade mortars capable of causing widespread damage. The latest recovery highlights how militant groups are adapting to restrictions by producing indigenous weaponry using locally available materials.
Officials fear such innovations could lead to deadlier attacks if preventive action is not taken promptly. A senior officer said that the rocket’s design suggests “considerable technical knowledge,” hinting at possible training or guidance from foreign groups.
Security forces have stepped up patrols along highways and villages in Churachandpur, which has witnessed frequent clashes between armed groups. The discovery of this weapon has triggered widespread concern among locals, many of whom have urged the government to enhance protection and restore normalcy.
State government orders deeper probe and increased vigilance
Manipur’s Home Department has directed a detailed investigation into the rocket recovered in Churachandpur and the two subsequent arrests. Officials are expected to submit a report on how such a large weapon entered the district without detection.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has praised the joint operation, calling it a major success in the fight against militancy. He assured that those responsible would be brought to justice and warned that the state would not tolerate any attempt to disrupt law and order.
In light of recent violence and sporadic clashes in Manipur, the discovery of the rocket has prompted calls for stricter monitoring of border trade and transport routes. Security agencies have been instructed to maintain round-the-clock vigil and intensify intelligence-sharing with central forces.
Community fear and renewed calls for peace
Local residents expressed anxiety after learning about the rocket recovered in Churachandpur, fearing that insurgent groups might be preparing for fresh attacks. Civil society organizations have urged all armed factions to refrain from violence and join peace talks instead.
Analysts note that Manipur’s fragile security situation requires a comprehensive strategy that blends counter-insurgency with development and dialogue. Without addressing the root causes of discontent, sporadic discoveries like this are likely to continue.
The recovery of the nine-foot rocket and arrests of insurgents mark a major victory for security forces. However, it also serves as a reminder that militancy in Manipur remains a persistent challenge demanding sustained attention, vigilance, and cooperation between communities and the state.
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