Multiple Arrests Made as Security Forces Intensify Crackdown on Insurgent Activities in Manipur

Agencies, March 24, 2025, Imphal: Security forces in Manipur have intensified operations against insurgent groups, resulting in multiple arrests and seizures of arms, ammunition, and other incriminating items. The crackdown follows a violent clash between members of the banned United National Liberation Front (Pambei) [UNLF (P)] and the radical Meitei organization, Arambai Tenggol (AT), in Imphal East district.

On March 23, 2025, security forces arrested two individuals associated with Arambai Tenggol in connection with the clash at Kongpal Khong, Imphal East, on March 22, 2025. The arrested individuals were identified as Kshetrimayum Nikhil Singh (28), of Sajiwa Jail, Imphal East District, and Yumnam Pringanba Singh (23), of Moirangkampu Sajed Awang Leikai, Imphal East District. The authorities have confirmed that raids are ongoing to apprehend other accused individuals. Notably, four members of UNLF (P) were already taken into custody on March 22, 2025.

In another significant operation, three individuals involved in extortion and abduction under the name of the Kangleipak Communist Party (People’s War Group) [KCP (PWG)] were arrested from Lamdeng Khunou under Lamsang Police Station, Imphal West District. The arrested suspects were identified as Wahengbam Wanglen Meitei (22), Moirangthem Changkhonba Singh (18), and Khundongbam Meghachandra Singh (19). Security forces recovered the following items from their possession: three mobile phones, three wallets containing cash amounts of Rs. 1000, Rs. 170, and Rs. 500, respectively, and one four-wheeler.

Additionally, on the same day, Manipur Police arrested an active cadre of UNLF, identified as Shagolshem Prabin Singh (27), from Ningombam Lamkhai crossing near Punya Toyota Showroom under Singjamei Police Station, Imphal West District. He was allegedly involved in extorting transport vehicles. A mobile phone was recovered from his possession.

Further operations led to the arrest of an active member of the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (Pro) [PREPAK (Pro)], identified as Md. Taj Khan alias Romen (37), from Mantripukhri Bazar near Kalimai Mandir under Heingang Police Station, Imphal East District. He was reportedly engaged in extortion activities targeting shops in and around Mantripukhri Bazar. Security forces seized two mobile phones, one wallet containing an Aadhaar Card, and one two-wheeler from his possession.

Continuing their crackdown, security forces also arrested three active cadres of PREPAK (Pro) from Kumbi Terakhong under Kumbi Police Station, Bishnupur District. The arrested individuals were identified as Oinam Abung Meitei (31), Yumlembam Romesh Singh alias Ratan (47), and RK Navy Meitei (32). A significant cache of arms and ammunition was seized during the operation, including one .303 Light Machine Gun (LMG), two .303 LMG magazines, sixteen .303 live ammunition rounds, three 7.62 mm SLR live ammunition rounds, one 5.56 mm INSAS live ammunition round, one 7.62 mm AK live ammunition round, twenty-four live Ballister cartridges, one No. 36 Hand Grenade key, three Grenade Arm Rings, one .303 blank ammunition round, one four-wheeler and two mobile phones.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to curbing insurgency and maintaining law and order in the region. Security forces remain vigilant, with further raids expected to dismantle militant networks and curb extortion and criminal activities linked to these organizations. The crackdown marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in Manipur.