What Happened in Manipur with 3 Militants Arrested and 53 Weapons Recovered?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Three militants apprehended in Manipur.
- Recovery of 53 firearms and seven IEDs.
- Seizure of narcotics worth Rs 10 lakh.
- Operations conducted across nine districts.
- Militants linked to KCP and KYKL.
Imphal, Sep 1 (NationPress) In a series of coordinated operations across various districts in Manipur, the Army and allied security forces have successfully detained three militants with ties to insurgent factions. They also recovered 53 firearms, seven Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and narcotics estimated at Rs 10 lakh, along with other military-grade supplies, as reported by officials.
According to Defence Spokesman Lt Col Amit Shukla, these operations were conducted in close collaboration with the Manipur Police across nine districts: Jiribam, Churachandpur, Bishnupur, Kakching, Chandel, Tamenglong, Kangpokpi, Imphal West, and Imphal East, which encompass both the valley and hilly terrains.
In recent days, the operations culminated in the capture of militants from both hill and valley-based insurgent factions, alongside the recovery of significant military hardware and narcotics.
The 53 firearms include several AK series rifles, a US-made M16 rifle, INSAS rifles, self-loading rifles, 9mm and .303 rifles, 9mm carbines, bolt-action rifles, single-barreled rifles, numerous pistols, and pull mechanism rifles.
The seized ammunition comprises several grenades, vast quantities of bullets, multiple magazines, tear smoke grenades, and tear smoke shells (soft nose LR).
Additionally, security forces confiscated communication gear such as a Baofeng handset with a charger, protective military accessories including bulletproof vests, tactical boots and belts, a radio set, and military fatigues.
The captured militants are affiliated with the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) and Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL). In a rapid operation at S Munnuam village in Churachandpur, the Assam Rifles intercepted a major attempt at drug trafficking.
Over 1,200 highly addictive methamphetamine tablets valued at Rs 10 lakh were seized, disrupting a significant narcotics supply chain.
Additionally, Assam Rifles apprehended an individual in Haolenphai, Moreh in the Tengnoupal District, suspected of involvement in extortion and arms smuggling for an armed group. A mobile phone believed to contain incriminating evidence was also recovered.