Manipur Police seize fuel meant for Myanmar smuggling, arrest four suspects, and intensify statewide crackdown with bunker demolitions, checkpoints, and security operations across border districts to curb illegal trade, militancy, and ensure safe movement on key highways.
A coordinated enforcement drive along the eastern frontier has led to the seizure of fuel consignments suspected to be destined for illegal cross-border trade, while parallel counter-insurgency measures continue to reshape the security landscape in the state.
Officials confirmed that the Manipur Police intercepted four vehicles transporting a total of 25 containers of petrol and diesel near the border town of Moreh in Tengnoupal district. The operation resulted in the arrest of four individuals allegedly involved in the illicit transportation network. Authorities believe the fuel was intended for smuggling into neighboring Myanmar, exploiting the region’s porous and largely unfenced international boundary.
The arrested individuals were identified as Elvis Lamkang (23), Md. Abas Khan (47), Dangsawa Koshil Pipachum (56), and Md. Mujibur Rahaman (35), all hailing from different districts within Manipur, including Chandel, Thoubal, and Kakching. Law enforcement agencies are currently investigating the broader network behind the operation, suspecting links to organized smuggling syndicates active along the border.
The India-Myanmar border in Manipur stretches approximately 398 kilometers across five districts—Churachandpur, Tengnoupal, Chandel, Kamjong, and Ukhrul. Due to the absence of fencing in several stretches, the region has long been identified as a vulnerable corridor for illegal activities, including drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and the movement of contraband goods such as fuel and wildlife.
In a separate but significant development, security forces carried out coordinated demolition operations targeting illegal fortified structures in Ukhrul district. At least 23 bunkers, believed to have been constructed by militant groups and armed cadres, were destroyed across multiple hill locations, including Mongkot Chepu, Shongphel, Mullam, Sirarakhong, and Ringue villages. These actions are part of an intensified campaign aimed at dismantling insurgent infrastructure across the state.
Sources indicate that more than 150 such bunkers have been demolished in recent months, reflecting a sustained effort by both central and state security agencies to curb militant activities. Ukhrul district, in particular, has witnessed recurring violence since February, prompting heightened vigilance and strategic operations.
Security forces have also ramped up search operations and area domination exercises in sensitive zones, including fringe and mixed-population areas. To strengthen surveillance and prevent the movement of illegal elements, authorities have established 114 checkpoints, commonly referred to as nakas, across both valley and hill districts.
Additionally, convoy protection measures remain in force along key transport routes such as the Imphal-Jiribam National Highway (NH-37), ensuring the safe passage of essential goods. Armed escorts are being provided to transport vehicles navigating vulnerable stretches of the highway.
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Amid ongoing operations, the police have issued a public advisory urging citizens to refrain from spreading or believing unverified information circulating on social media platforms. Officials emphasized that the authenticity of any suspicious content can be verified through the Central Control Room, warning that legal action will be taken against those found disseminating false or misleading information.
The developments highlight a broader push by authorities to stabilize the region through a combination of law enforcement, intelligence-driven operations, and public cooperation.
