The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Manipur): In a notable security operation, the Assam Rifles, collaborating with the Manipur Police and the Indian Reserve Battalion, successfully recovered an extensive cache of weapons and war-related equipment in the Churachandpur district of Manipur. The operation was initiated based on precise intelligence regarding the presence of these weapons in the Dampi Ridge and Moljang areas of the district.
The joint team, acting on the intelligence received, commenced a coordinated cordon and search operation on February 24, 2024. The Assam Rifles stated in a press release, “Acting on specific intelligence of the presence of weapons in general area Dampi Ridge and Moljang, in Churachandpur district in Manipur, Assam Rifles, Manipur Police and Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB), launched a joint cordon and search operations in these areas on 24 February 2024.”
This meticulously planned operation led to the discovery of various firearms and ammunition. The security forces recovered one 7.62mm Semi-Automatic Rifle, one 12mm bore single-barrel Rifle, one mortar, one .303 Rifle, and ammunition for a 9 mm Carbine. These confiscated items were subsequently handed over to the Manipur Police for further investigation.
In a related development, the Assam Rifles also uncovered a storage facility used for narcotics and contraband in Manipur’s Moreh district. This operation, which took place on February 23, led to the seizure of narcotics, including 29.799 kg of WIY tablets, 0.386 kg of heroin powder, and other substances. Additionally, 8.299 kg of gold dust, 7970 alprazolam tablets, various rubber stamps, and packing materials were found in the possession of the homeowner.
The spokesperson for the Headquarters Inspector General Assam Rifles (South) stated, “The overall cost of the seized items is approximately Rs 15 crore in the international market.” Following this significant find, the apprehended individuals and the recovered items were handed over to Moreh Police Station for further legal proceedings.
The operation at Homeguard Veng, Moreh, was not without challenges. As the team cordoned off the suspected house, a large crowd of women gathered at the location, protesting against the arrest. The Assam Rifles used non-lethal weapons to disperse the crowd, and the Rapid Action Force was employed as a precautionary measure, ensuring the operation’s success and safety.