Imphal: In a major security sweep, the Indian Army and Assam Rifles, in close coordination with Manipur Police, CRPF, BSF, and ITBP, conducted a series of intelligence-based joint operations across multiple districts of Manipur from June 8 to 15. The operations spanned both hill and valley districts, including Thoubal, Churachandpur, Kakching, Tengnoupal, Imphal East, and Imphal West.
These concerted efforts led to the arrest of four individuals affiliated with hill- and valley-based armed groups and the recovery of a significant cache of weapons and explosives—a total of 23 weapons, 10 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), grenades, ammunition, and other warlike stores.
Key Highlights of the Operations:
June 8: Assam Rifles and BSF, acting on intelligence inputs, carried out a joint search in the Mission Veng area of Moreh, Tengnoupal District, seizing two improvised mortars, locally known as Pompi.
June 12:
In Ikop Pat, Thoubal District, Assam Rifles and Manipur Police recovered five firearms, including a .303 rifle, three 12-bore SBBL rifles, and a 9mm pistol, along with ammunition and military-grade supplies.
In Churachandpur District, a joint team recovered four weapons—two Pompi mortars and two 12-bore rifles—from a forested area between T Lamlai and Kuvan villages.
Another operation in Champhai, Imphal East, led to the seizure of three weapons: two 12-bore single-barrel shotguns and one 0.32-calibre pistol, along with ammunition and supplies.
June 13: A coordinated operation in Tengnoupal District by the Indian Army and Manipur Police led to the discovery of three firearms (including a 9mm carbine and two pistols) and 10 IEDs.
June 14:
Acting on specific intelligence, troops conducted a raid in Chairel Khunou, Kakching District, seizing four weapons—including an SLR, 9mm carbine. 22-calibre rifle and a single-barrel rifle—along with 6 kg of explosives, grenades, and ammunition.
On the same day, another operation in Thayong Hill near Laikot Kom Village, Imphal East, resulted in the recovery of two 12-bore rifles (SBBL and bolt-action), ammunition, and warlike stores.
Four cadres were apprehended during the operations and handed over to Manipur Police for further investigation. The successful missions underscore the steadfast resolve of security forces in restoring peace and curbing the activities of armed groups in the region.
These operations reflect a robust and ongoing effort to stabilise Manipur amid recent tensions and violence, reaffirming the commitment of law enforcement agencies to maintaining law and order across the state.