Manipur police have arrested seven individuals in multiple operations across the state, busting a network of kidnappers, extortionists, and militant cadres. Four people were arrested from Himalayan Tiles Naka in Imphal West district for allegedly kidnapping two men from Delhi and Jaipur. The victims were lured to Manipur under the pretext of business training but were held hostage and threatened with death unless ransom was paid. The arrested have been identified as Laishram Hellary Meetei (35), Thangjam Lemba Singh (27), Huirem Anand Singh (43), and Nahakpam Naresh Singh (28). Police recovered a .32 pistol with five live rounds, two gun licences, a knife, mobile phones, and a four-wheeler.
In another operation, police nabbed Leimapokpam Abem Chanu alias Sanathoi (25), an active cadre of the proscribed KCP (PWG), from Wahengkhuman Maning Leikai. She was allegedly extorting fuel stations in the valley. Three more KCP (PWG) cadres were arrested from a rented house in Sagolband Thingom Leikai. Identified as Oinam Shantikeshor Singh (35), Kangabam Sony Chanu (18), and Leishangthem Uma Devi (21), they were reportedly extorting local shops. Cash, mobile phones, and identity documents were seized.
Separately, Huirem Dinesh Meetei (32), a cadre of RPF/PLA, was apprehended from Meitei Lamkhai Chajing under Singjamei Police Station. Police said investigations are ongoing and have not ruled out further arrests.
