In a significant week-long operation, the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and Manipur Police, along with various security agencies, undertook a series of coordinated missions focused on arms recovery across multiple districts in Manipur. This initiative was implemented in both hill and valley regions, targeting key locations including Imphal West, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Bishnupur, Tengnoupal, and Kakching.
The operations were launched based on specific intelligence, leading to several successful recoveries of military-grade arms. A notable search on November 4 in Samukom Village, located in Tengnoupal District, resulted in the seizure of significant weaponry. Security forces recovered two large Pompi guns, grenades, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and a variety of ammunition during this operation, showcasing the scale and seriousness of the security situation in the region.
Further intelligence-driven searches took place over the following days. On November 8, operations in the Uyok area of Bishnupur and Thingom area of Imphal West led to the recovery of an array of sophisticated arms, including a 9mm carbine, a grenade launcher, a .303 rifle, and multiple grenades. Additionally, in a search conducted on November 9 within Sangaikot area, near LKhonomphai village in Churachandpur District, security forces uncovered more firearms, including additional rifles and pistols.
The search efforts continued with another operation on November 10 in Utangpokpi, Kakching District. Here, a joint team from the Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, and the Border Security Force (BSF) successfully recovered a .22 rifle along with ammunition. All confiscated arms and ammunition were officially handed over to the Manipur Police for further investigation and processing.
In a separate incident, tensions flared in Jiribam District where a confrontation between Kuki militants and a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp resulted in the deaths of 11 militants. During the clash, a CRPF jawan sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing medical treatment.
These developments underline ongoing security challenges in Manipur, highlighting the coordinated efforts of the Indian armed forces and local police to mitigate armed violence and recover dangerous weaponry from non-state actors operating in the region.
