In a series of coordinated operations spanning multiple districts across Manipur, security forces have successfully recovered a significant cache of arms, ammunition, and explosive devices. The Indian Army, in collaboration with Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, and other law enforcement agencies, conducted these operations targeting regions in both the hill and valley areas, including Imphal West, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Bishnupur, Tengnoupal, and Kakching districts.
The operations were initiated based on intelligence indicating the presence of arms in these areas, beginning on 4 November 2024. In a search operation in the Samukom village of Tengnoupal district, teams from the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police seized two large Pompi guns, grenades, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and other war-like stores. This discovery marked the first of several successful searches.
Another significant recovery took place in Uyok, Bishnupur district, where Assam Rifles seized one 7.62mm SLR rifle, a .303 rifle, two Single Bore Barrel (SBBL) guns, a 9mm pistol, grenades, and additional ammunition. This joint operation added to the growing tally of confiscated weapons and reinforced the scope of ongoing anti-militant efforts in the state.
On 8 November, Assam Rifles searched the Thingom area of Yangoi Lambi in Imphal West District. This operation resulted in the recovery of a 9mm carbine machine gun, a grenade launcher, a 9mm pistol, grenades, and ammunition. The items were promptly secured, marking another successful operation.
Further breakthroughs followed on 9 November. Security forces recovered a .303 rifle, two pistols, six 12-bore single-barrel rifles, a .22 rifle, and ammunition from the jungles near L Khonomphai village in Sangaikot, Churachandpur district. Additional searches in S Choungoubung and Maohing of Kangpokpi district led to the recovery of a 5.56mm INSAS rifle, a .303 rifle, two SBBL guns, two 0.22 pistols, improvised projectile launchers, grenades, and further ammunition.
In another intelligence-based operation on 10 November in Utangpokpi, Kakching district, a joint team of Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, and the Border Security Force (BSF) recovered a 0.22 rifle, ammunition, and other war-like materials.
All recovered items have been handed over to Manipur Police for further investigation and disposal. The successful completion of these operations underscores the close cooperation between the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and other security forces, highlighting their shared commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region. The recovery of such large quantities of arms and explosives demonstrates the proactive measures being taken to curb potential threats and maintain the safety and security of Manipur's communities. (PR)