In one of the largest arms recoveries in recent months, joint security forces in Manipur launched a series of coordinated operations across four hill districts, resulting in the seizure of 203 weapons, 30 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and other war-like materials. The crackdown, conducted between midnight of July 3 and early morning of July 4, targeted suspected caches in Tengnoupal, Kangpokpi, Chandel, and Churachandpur districts.
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, joint teams comprising Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, the Indian Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) executed simultaneous raids across multiple interior locations. According to Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Lhari Dorjee Lhatoo, the operations were aimed at dismantling illegal arms networks and restoring peace in the violence-hit state.
Weapons and Explosives Recovered
- 21 INSAS rifles, 11 AK-series rifles, 26 self-loading rifles (SLRs)
- 2 sniper rifles, 3 carbines, 17 .303 rifles, 2 MA assault rifles
- 3 M79 grenade launchers, 11 single-barrel bolt action guns, 9 pistols
- 18 single-shot breech-loaded rifles, 38 “Pumpis” (improvised light weapons)
- 109 rounds of assorted ammunition, 10 grenades, 9 Pumpi shells, 2 lathode grenades, and 30 IEDs
Earlier in the day, additional recoveries were made in Churachandpur and Bishnupur, where 11 firearms were seized. One individual was arrested in Imphal East for possession of an illegal handgun.
The Manipur Police reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order and urged citizens to report any suspicious activity or information related to illegal arms to the nearest police station or the Central Control Room. Security forces continue to conduct search operations and area domination in fringe and vulnerable regions across the state.
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023 between the Meitei and Kuki communities, resulting in over 260 deaths and the displacement of thousands. The latest operations are part of a broader effort to stabilize the region and prevent further escalation.
The scale and precision of the crackdown underscore the heightened vigilance and coordination among security agencies in curbing insurgency and illegal arms proliferation in Manipur.
