Security forces carried out a series of coordinated operations across Manipur and recovered a large number of weapons and explosive materials, officials said on Friday. The action is part of ongoing efforts to control insurgent activities and improve the overall security situation in the state.
According to officials, the operations conducted on March 20 led to the seizure of 29 firearms and 50 improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Apart from these, grenades, ammunition and other items used in armed activities were also recovered from different locations spread across both hill and valley districts.
In Kakching district, security personnel recovered six firearms, including an AK-56 rifle, from the Wabagai Turel Mamei area. Three grenades and a quantity of ammunition were also seized during the operation.
In Tengnoupal district, a major recovery was made from Loisi and Saivom villages, where 29 IEDs, five locally made hand grenades, electric detonators and other explosive materials were found. Security teams also carried out operations in areas under Machi police station and near Yangoubung village along the India-Myanmar border, leading to further recovery of explosives, pistols, a grenade launcher and communication devices.
In Imphal West district, searches in Lamdeng and Kameng areas resulted in the seizure of 11 pistols, 85 rounds of live ammunition, camouflage bulletproof vests and other firearms.
Another operation in Thoubal district led to the recovery of five firearms and ammunition from the foothills of Tekcham Sanji Ching.
Officials said all the explosive devices recovered during the operations were safely destroyed following standard procedures to prevent any threat.
Security forces have been conducting regular search and combing operations in Manipur since violence broke out in May 2023 between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities. The conflict has led to loss of lives and displacement of many people, and forces continue their efforts to restore normal life and maintain peace in the region.
