Security Forces Crack Down on Extremism: 11 Arrested in Manipur Operations

Major Arrests in Manipur Amid Ongoing Violence

Imphal: On Wednesday, law enforcement officials reported the apprehension of 11 individuals linked to three banned organizations across various districts in Manipur, including Thoubal, Tengnoupal, Imphal East, and Imphal West.

Most of these arrests occurred on Tuesday, with the suspects allegedly involved in extortion activities.

In Thoubal District, four members of the KCP (Apunba City Meitei) were detained, during which police seized a .32 caliber pistol with a magazine, three live rounds, and three hand grenades.

Additionally, three individuals from the Socialist Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (SOREPA) were taken into custody in Waithou Chiru, located in Imphal East.

An active member of KCP (Nongdrenkhomba) was also arrested in the Lamphel area of Imphal West.

Furthermore, central forces apprehended three members of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF-K) near Border Pillar 81 close to Moreh town in Tengnoupal district on Monday.

Since ethnic clashes erupted in May 2023 between the Meitei community, based in the Imphal valley, and the Kuki community from the neighboring hills, over 260 lives have been lost, and thousands have been displaced.

The violence was triggered by a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ held in the hill districts, protesting a Manipur High Court ruling regarding the Meitei community's request for Scheduled Tribe status.

Following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh on February 9, President's rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13, leading to the suspension of the state assembly, which is set to remain inactive until 2027.