Manipur Police Arrest Three Militants, Seize Rifle in Twin Security Operations

Manipur Police and security forces have intensified their crackdown on insurgent networks, arresting three militants linked to two banned organisations in separate operations across the state. The suspects were allegedly involved in extortion activities , while another man with suspected militant links was also taken into custody with arms and ammunition recovered from his possession.

According to a police statement issued on Monday, the operations were carried out over the weekend in Imphal East and Thoubal districts as part of ongoing efforts to curb militant activities and dismantle extortion networks.

One of those arrested was Salam Bijanda Singh (37) , an alleged cadre of the banned United Peoples' Party of Kangleipak (UPPK) . He was apprehended on Saturday from the Porompat area in Imphal East district.

On the same day, security personnel arrested a militant associated with the banned Kangleipak Communist Party (Nongdrenkhomba) from Wangkhei Ayangpalli in Imphal East. In another operation conducted hours later, another alleged cadre of the same outfit, Md Motim (31) , was apprehended from Khurai Nandeibam Leikai , also in Imphal East district.

Police said preliminary investigations suggest the arrested militants were involved in extortion-related activities , a long-standing challenge in several parts of the state. Further investigation is underway to determine the extent of their alleged network and identify additional associates.

In a separate operation on Sunday, security forces arrested Chagisongtanbou Nkhamnamai (46) from the Yairipok Pechi Road area under the jurisdiction of Yairipok Police Station in Thoubal district. Authorities alleged that he had links with insurgent groups operating in the region.

During the operation, personnel recovered a self-loading rifle , one magazine and 10 live cartridges from his possession. Police said the seizure is expected to aid ongoing investigations into militant activities. Security agencies have continued intensified operations across Manipur to disrupt insurgent networks, curb illegal arms movement, and strengthen law and order amid persistent security challenges.