How Many Kuki Militants Were Arrested in Manipur?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In Manipur, authorities have apprehended 12 militants, including members of the United Kuki National Army, revealing a concerning trend of militant activity in the region. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat extremism and ensure public safety amid rising tensions.
Key Takeaways
- 12 militants arrested in Manipur, including members of UKNA.
- Weapons and drugs seized from the militants.
- Security forces are conducting ongoing operations to maintain law and order.
- Checkpoints established across districts to prevent illegal movements.
- Community safety remains a priority amid rising tensions.
Imphal, Oct 4 (NationPress) Security forces have apprehended 12 notorious militants affiliated with various banned organizations, including five members of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA), across multiple districts in Manipur over the last 24 hours, as reported by officials on Saturday.
A police representative disclosed that the Assam Rifles and other security personnel captured five active UKNA militants in the Songkot village vicinity of Churachandpur district.
The UKNA is recognized as an illegal Kuki extremist group, primarily operating in the hill regions of Manipur.
The detained UKNA militants have been identified as Paolenlal Kipgen (30), Kamgoulen (23), Lhunkholen Singson (26), Khaiginpau (37), and Thangzasuan (14).
Authorities recovered a variety of weapons and items from their possession, including one M79 grenade launcher with three grenades, two 9mm pistols with five rounds, eight radios along with four chargers, eight pairs of jungle boots, three kg of opium seeds, and three mobile phones.
On October 2, security forces also apprehended the self-proclaimed Commander-in-Chief of another Kuki militant group—the Chin Kuki Mizo Army (CKMA)—Paokholen Guite, from the same district.
According to officials, Guite was implicated in the trafficking of arms and narcotics across the India-Myanmar border for militant factions that have not entered into a suspension of operations agreement with the state government.
Moreover, he was involved in extortion.
From Guite’s possession, two AK-47 rifles with magazines, 31 AK-47 rounds, 150 rounds of 7.62 SLR and LMG, cash amounting to Rs one lakh, a bulletproof vest, a vehicle, and two mobile devices were seized.
In total, beyond the five UKNA militants, seven additional extremists were apprehended from Imphal West and Thoubal districts.
These detained individuals were associated with various factions of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) and the People's Liberation Army (PLA).
Among those arrested was Nongmaithem Sidananda Singh, alias Nanao or Lenin (38), who held the rank of self-styled Corporal in the PLA.
These militants were implicated in the abduction of individuals, extorting locals in the Manipur valley, mediating disputes through intimidation, and engaging in crimes targeting women.
Security forces successfully rescued Soyam Sanayamba Thomas (35) from Thamnapokpi village, who had wandered into Twinomjang village in the tribal region of Kangpokpi district.
He has been safely returned to his family.
Officials noted that security forces persist in conducting search operations and maintaining area dominance across districts.
The movement of 346 vehicles carrying essential supplies along the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37) has been facilitated without incidents.
Rigorous security protocols have been established in all vulnerable locations, and security convoys are deployed in sensitive areas to guarantee the safe passage of vehicles.
To prevent illicit movements of hostile entities and suspected vehicles, a total of 114 checkpoints have been established across various districts, both in the hills and the valley.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the importance of these arrests in the context of national security. The ongoing efforts of security forces to apprehend militants demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding the region and maintaining law and order. The situation in Manipur is complex, and continued vigilance is essential.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What militant groups were involved in the arrests?
The arrests involved members of the United Kuki National Army (UKNA) and other factions such as the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) and the People's Liberation Army (PLA).
What type of weapons were seized during the operations?
Authorities seized various weapons including AK-47 rifles, 9mm pistols, a grenade launcher, and ammunition, along with other military supplies.
How are security forces ensuring safety in Manipur?
Security forces are conducting extensive search operations, establishing checkpoints, and deploying security convoys to ensure the safety of civilians and prevent illegal activities.
What is the current status of the arrested militants?
The arrested militants are currently in custody, and investigations are ongoing to address their activities and affiliations.
What measures are in place to facilitate safe movement in the region?
Rigorous security protocols, including checkpoints and security convoys, are in place to ensure the safe movement of vehicles and prevent incidents.
