Joint security forces comprising the Manipur Police, CRPF and Assam Rifles apprehended four suspected armed village volunteer cadres during a search operation in Kangpokpi district on Sunday in connection with the abduction of six individuals earlier this month.
According to officials, the six persons were allegedly abducted from Leilon Vaiphei in Kangpokpi district on May 13, following which a series of operations were launched to trace the missing individuals and identify those involved in the incident.
During one such operation conducted on May 25 between P. Molding and Leilon Vaiphei inter-village road, security forces arrested Thangkhomang Khongsai (51) of Patbung village in Kangchup, Seikholet Khongsai (40) of Mongbung Tongneh in New Keithelmanbi, Lunminthang Dimngel (27) and Kamgoulal Khongsai (30).
Police said the arrested individuals are suspected to be active cadres of armed village volunteer groups operating in Kangpokpi district and are allegedly involved in anti-social activities, including extortion, criminal intimidation and illegal possession of arms and ammunition.
Officials further stated that the possible involvement of the four accused in the abduction case is under investigation and would be verified during the course of further inquiry.
Meanwhile, the Kuki Inpi has reportedly announced an indefinite shutdown in Kangpokpi district following the arrests.
In separate operations conducted across Manipur on May 24 and 25, security forces also arrested four active insurgent cadres linked to different militant outfits.
On May 24, two active cadres of the NRFM were apprehended from Pangei Nepali Basti in Imphal East district. The arrested individuals were identified as Moirangthem Samson Meitei alias Tonsana (28) and Chanambam Nabakumar Meetei alias Ebungo (22). Two mobile phones were recovered from their possession.
In another operation, security forces arrested an active cadre of the KCP (PWG), identified as Md. Satibur Rahaman alias Boyai (34), from Khabeisoi Sabal Leikai under Heingang Police Station in Imphal East district. One mobile phone was seized during the operation.
On the same day, an active cadre of the KYKL, identified as Oinam Shelung Singh alias Amuton alias Naoba (30), was arrested from Seijang Awang Leikai under Yaingangpokpi Police Station in Imphal East district.
Security forces said further investigation into all the cases is underway.
