Security forces in Manipur arrested nine militants and seized 36 weapons, explosives, and meth tablets worth ₹39 crore in joint operations across seven districts. The crackdown highlights intensified efforts to curb insurgency and narco-trafficking along the Indo-Myanmar border.
In a major crackdown against insurgency and illegal trafficking, the Army, Assam Rifles, and Manipur Police jointly carried out a series of intelligence-based operations across multiple districts of Manipur, leading to the arrest of nine hardcore militants and the recovery of a huge cache of arms, ammunition, and narcotics. Officials confirmed the operations on Tuesday, highlighting the coordinated efforts of the security forces in both valley and hill regions of the conflict-affected state.
According to Defence Spokesman Lt Col Amit Shukla, the Army and Assam Rifles, working in close coordination with Manipur Police, executed targeted operations across seven districts—Tengnoupal, Thoubal, Imphal East, Tamenglong, Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, and Chandel. These districts include both the Imphal valley and hilly terrains, which have long been vulnerable to insurgent activity and cross-border smuggling.
The multi-day operations resulted in the apprehension of nine cadres belonging to different outlawed outfits, including the Socialist Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (SOREPA), Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF)/People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Kangleipak Communist Party (People’s War Group), and the United National Liberation Front (UNLF). These militant organizations are known for their anti-national activities and involvement in smuggling networks along the Indo-Myanmar border.
Arms and Ammunition Recovery
During the raids, security forces seized a total of 36 arms, multiple explosives, and other war-like stores. The recovered weapons included four Self Loading Rifles (SLR), four INSAS rifles, two .303 rifles, one AR-15/M-16 rifle, several bolt-action rifles, 9mm pistols, a scope, 25 magazines, and 82 rounds of live ammunition. Additionally, three mobile phones were confiscated, which are suspected to contain key communication data useful for ongoing investigations.
Officials emphasized that the seizures reflect the scale of illegal weapons circulation within insurgent groups and demonstrate the security forces’ resolve to curb militancy in the state.
Major Drug Haul in Tengnoupal District
One of the most significant recoveries came from Tengnoupal district along the Sita-Tengnoupal road, close to the Myanmar border. On Monday night, security personnel intercepted a Chinese Kenbo bike abandoned by an unknown rider who fled upon spotting the forces. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of 600 packets containing 1,20,000 methamphetamine tablets, weighing nearly 13 kg and valued at over ₹39 crore in the illegal drug market.
Police officials suspect that the consignment was smuggled in from Myanmar, which shares a porous and largely unfenced 398 km border with Manipur. The contraband and the bike have been seized, and further investigations are underway to trace the handler and the intended recipients of the narcotics.
Intensified Security Measures
To ensure law and order, a total of 116 checkpoints (Nakas) have been set up across various districts, both in the valley and the hills. In the last 24 hours alone, three individuals were detained at these checkpoints for further questioning. Security forces continue to conduct search operations, area domination, and surveillance across sensitive zones in both urban and rural regions of the state.
Officials noted that such proactive measures are essential not only to dismantle militant networks but also to intercept drug smuggling routes that threaten the youth population with addiction and exploitation. The recovery of methamphetamine tablets worth crores underscores the growing challenge of narco-trafficking along the Indo-Myanmar border.
Commitment to Peace and Security
Lt Col Amit Shukla reaffirmed that the Army and Assam Rifles, along with state police forces, remain committed to restoring peace and stability in Manipur. The successful operations reflect a combination of intelligence gathering, swift coordination, and persistent vigilance across vulnerable districts.
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While insurgent groups continue to pose challenges, the recent arrests and recoveries are seen as a significant setback for militant organizations and their cross-border allies. The state government and security forces are determined to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of civilians amid ongoing tensions.
