Imphal, Dec 5 (NationPress) Security forces in Manipur have detained four notorious militants from the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) across two districts within the last 24 hours, as reported on Friday. Additionally, five cases have been initiated concerning threats to cultural organizations.

A police spokesperson stated that the apprehended PREPAK militants were taken into custody from Imphal East and Thoubal districts, and were implicated in various illegal activities, including the coercive collection of funds from government employees, contractors, merchants, and ordinary citizens.

One of the detained militants, Akoijam Univers Meitei alias Lukhoi (27), was reportedly involved in recruiting new members for the banned organization. Vehicle theft, particularly of small cars and motorcycles, has been a persistent issue in Manipur.

Moreover, the Manipur Police apprehended a vehicle thief identified as Md. Asad (29) from the Kwakeithel Sangaiprou Mamang Leikai area in Imphal West. A stolen vehicle has since been recovered from his possession.

Following threats made against participants of the Sumang Leela Associations and other performers during the recently concluded Manipur Sangai Festival 2025, the police have registered five cases across multiple districts in the Imphal valley, including Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, and Kakching. Investigative efforts are ongoing to identify those responsible and to pursue appropriate legal actions. Currently, three militants have been apprehended in relation to these incidents.

Law enforcement has promised stringent measures against any attempts to intimidate or disrupt cultural events and public gatherings within the state. After a hiatus of two years, the 10-day Sangai Tourism Festival took place at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal from November 21 to November 30.

In the lead-up to the Sangai Tourism Festival, several factions of violence-affected Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a coalition of numerous Meitei civil society groups, called for a work stoppage and urged the public to boycott the festival, organizing a series of protests.

These organizations contended that the state government's organization of the annual Sangai Tourism Festival from November 21 to 30 implies a restoration of normalcy in their regions, advocating for their return home instead of remaining in relief camps.

Security forces are continuing their extensive operations against militants, conducting search initiatives and area control drives in mixed-population and vulnerable regions across the districts. A total of 113 checkpoints have been established throughout Manipur in both valley and hill districts to prevent the illegal movement of hostile elements and suspicious vehicles.

Additionally, security forces are providing escorts for vehicles, including trucks transporting essential goods along the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37). Stringent security measures and convoy protection are being enforced in sensitive areas to guarantee the safe transit of vehicles.

The Manipur Police have advised the public to remain cautious of rumors and to verify the authenticity of dubious videos circulating on social media. "The accuracy of any unfounded videos or audio clips can be confirmed through the Central Control Room. Sharing and disseminating fake posts on social media may lead to legal repercussions," warned a police statement.