A combined team of security forces and forest department on Wednesday destroyed a total of 180 acres of illegal poppy plantation at Leingangching hill range (Mapithel hill range) under Litan-PS, Ukhrul district. 20 huts found at the plantation sites were also destroyed. Security forces also destroyed a total of 38 acres of illegal poppy plantation at Thawai Kuki hill range (Mapithel hill range) under Litan-PS, Ukhrul district. Ten huts found at the plantation sites were also destroyed. On the other hand, security forces intercepted a bus at Tuileluon village, under Sangaikot-PS, Churachandpur district and arrested one Thangminl ian Zou (30) of Teisaljang village, from whose possession, contraband raw opium weighing approximately 57.7 kgs, and a mobile phone were seized.
Following further investigation, one Melody Lambu (36) of Pallel Bazaar, presently living at T. Khonomphai village, Koite area, Churachandpur district was arrested. Manipur Police also intercepted a truck and arrested its driver, one Athikho Elokho (27) of Kaibi Village, Senapati district from Martyrs Park area under Mao-PS, Senapati district. 5.60 Kgs of opium, one mobile phone, a sum of ₹ 5,200, one Aadhaar card and one PAN card a Tata Dumper, bearing Regd. No. NL-07AA-5740 were seized from his possession. Meanwhile, security forces continued to conduct search operations and area domination in the fringe and vulnerable areas across districts. A total of 103 Nakas/Checkpoints were installed in different districts both in the hills and the valley, however none was detained. Movement of 130 vehicles carrying essential items along NH-37 was ensured. Strict security measures were taken up in all vulnerable locations and security convoy was provided in sensitive stretches in order to ensure free and safe movement of the vehicles.
