Who Were the Nine Militants Arrested in Manipur?

Synopsis
In a bold move, security forces in Manipur apprehended nine militants associated with banned groups in a series of operations. This crackdown highlights ongoing tensions in the region. Learn more about the implications of these arrests and the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in a state grappling with insurgency.
Key Takeaways
- Nine militants arrested in Manipur.
- Operations conducted across five districts.
- Criminal activities include abduction and extortion.
- Significant recovery of arms and documents.
- Continuous operations by security forces show commitment to restoring peace.
Imphal, May 17 (NationPress) In a significant operation, nine militants affiliated with various outlawed groups were apprehended within the last 24 hours across multiple districts in the conflict-ridden state of Manipur, according to officials on Saturday.
A police representative confirmed that the nine insurgents were captured from five districts: Imphal East, Imphal West, Churachandpur, Thoubal, and Bishnupur.
The detained individuals are linked to the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), Chin Kuki National Defence Force (CKNDF), and United National Liberation Front (UNLF).
These militants have been implicated in various criminal activities, including abductions, extortion, and coercing individuals for money from contractors, traders, government officials, and civilians.
Authorities recovered several arms, ammunition, Aadhaar cards, and various incriminating documents from the apprehended militants.
Notably, a captured CKNDF member, Thongkhohou Touthang (34), is reported to be involved in recruiting local youth for armed insurgency and facilitating cross-border arms and personnel movements.
Touthang is also accused of extorting money from the public on behalf of the CKNDF.
Additionally, a mobile phone and a SIM card were confiscated during the operation.
Notably, Manipur shares a 398-km-long unfenced international border with Myanmar, where the Border Road Organisation (BRO) began fencing efforts last year to secure the challenging frontier.
Militants from various factions often exploit the porous, mountainous, and forested borders to conduct cross-border violent activities.
With the latest arrests, security forces have apprehended a total of 38 militants from different banned organizations over the past four days. Ongoing search operations in vulnerable areas of the hill and valley districts have resulted in the recovery of numerous arms and ammunition from Imphal East, Kakching, and Senapati.