In one of the largest crackdowns on illegal weapons this year, security forces in Manipur have seized 87 firearms and a large quantity of ammunition during coordinated raids across the state’s hill districts. The operation, announced by police on Thursday, is part of sustained efforts to curb arms trafficking and restore peace in the violence-hit state. The multi-day operation was carried out jointly by Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, Army units, and Central Armed Police Forces, following specific intelligence inputs about hidden stockpiles of arms. The raids were concentrated in Churachandpur, Chandel, and Tengnoupal districts, areas that have witnessed repeated clashes and armed activity in recent months.
According to officials, the seized cache included a range of high-powered and sophisticated weapons. Among them were an M16 rifle, an MA1 rifle, and an INSAS rifle, alongside several carbines and pistols. Security forces also confiscated 37 double-barrel guns, 11 pistols of different makes, and 28 improvised firearms locally known as “lathodes” and “pompis.” In addition to the firearms, the forces recovered 22 grenades, five lathode bombs, 30 rounds of assorted ammunition, 23 radio sets with two chargers, and two bulletproof jacket plates. Authorities said such recoveries highlight the extent of arms circulation in conflict-prone regions and underline the urgency of ongoing disarmament drives.
Manipur has been grappling with ethnic tensions and armed confrontations in recent months, and authorities believe that the widespread availability of illegal weapons has fueled the unrest. By targeting stockpiles in the hill districts, security agencies aim to cut off supplies that sustain armed groups and criminal networks. Director General of Police (DGP) Manipur said the seizures marked a crucial success in the state’s broader security strategy. “These operations are part of our sustained campaign to remove illegal weapons from circulation and to restore normalcy,” the DGP stated. He added that close coordination between the police and central forces would continue to ensure such focused operations are carried out regularly.
