Security Forces Recover Over 200 Weapons in Manipur Operation

Imphal, July 4 (PTI) Security forces successfully recovered over 200 weapons, including firearms and war-like stores, during operations conducted over a few hours in four hill districts of Manipur, a senior police officer disclosed on Friday.

INSAS rifles, self-loading rifles (SLRs), and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were discovered during these joint operations carried out from Thursday midnight to Friday morning.

"Upon receiving specific intelligence about a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, and other warlike materials concealed in various locations, coordinated actions were initiated simultaneously at multiple sites. These included interior and suspected areas in Tengnoupal, Kangpokpi, Chandel, and Churachandpur districts," stated ADGP Lhari Dorjee Lhatoo.

The operations were launched by joint teams comprising Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, the Army, and Central Armed Police Forces, as informed during a press conference.

These efforts led to the recovery of a significant number of arms, ammunition, explosives, and other warlike stores, Lhatoo further stated.

The haul included 21 INSAS rifles, 11 AK series rifles, 26 SLRs, two sniper rifles, three carbines, 17 .303 rifles, two MA assault rifles, three M79 grenade launchers, 11 single-barrel bolt action rifles, nine pistols, 18 single-shot breech-loaded rifles, and 38 Pumpis.

The Pumpi is a term used variously for improvised light weapons.

Additionally, the forces seized 109 rounds of different types of ammunition, 30 IEDs, 10 grenades, nine Pumpi shells, and two lathode grenades, the officer reported.

"The Manipur Police remains steadfast in fostering a peaceful and secure region. We urge the public to cooperate with the police and security forces, and promptly report any suspicious activity or information regarding illegal arms to the nearest police station or the Central Control Room," he emphasized.

Earlier, in an X post, the police noted that security forces retrieved at least 11 firearms and war-like stores in the districts of Churachandpur and Bishnupur.

One individual was also arrested for possessing an illegal handgun in Imphal East district.

"Security forces continue to conduct search operations and area domination in vulnerable and fringe areas across the districts," the post stated.

Manipur has witnessed the tragic loss of at least 260 lives due to ethnic violence since May 2023. The ongoing conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities has also rendered thousands homeless, prompting their stay in relief camps. The state is currently under President’s rule.

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