In a major coordinated crackdown against insurgent activity in Manipur, the Indian Army, along with Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Border Security Force (BSF), arrested 17 insurgents and recovered a large cache of weapons and explosives. The intelligence-led operation, conducted between April 26 and May 4, 2025, spanned the districts of Kakching, Tengnoupal, Bishnupur, and Kangpokpi.
Security forces recovered 31 weapons, including automatic rifles, pistols, improvised mortars, grenades, and assorted ammunition. Additionally, 14 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and other war-like materials were seized. All detained individuals and confiscated items have been handed over to Manipur Police for further investigation and legal action.
Images from the field show security personnel presenting the seized arsenal on display, with a trained Labrador—likely a sniffer dog—present at the scene, highlighting the crucial role of canine units in detecting explosives. Other visuals depict bomb disposal squads conducting searches in forested and rugged terrains, showcasing the operational challenges in the hill-valley topography of Manipur.
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The operation comes amid ongoing ethnic unrest in the state, particularly between the Meitei and Kuki communities, which erupted in May 2023. The violence, driven by land and political disputes and worsened by widespread access to illegal arms, has resulted in the displacement of thousands and numerous casualties. This latest effort follows a similar arms recovery mission in January 2025 that led to the seizure of 35 weapons across districts such as Thoubal and Churachandpur.
The Indian Army has increasingly relied on trained canine units—such as Labradors and German Shepherds—in counter-insurgency roles. These dogs are vital for explosive detection and tracking militants in dense and remote areas, proving effective in the state’s volatile conditions.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to restoring stability and security in Manipur. Joint security operations will continue with the goal of dismantling armed insurgent networks and curbing the illegal arms trade, which has long fueled conflict in the region.
