Assam Rifles on July 22 apprehended two active cadres of the proscribed People’s Liberation Army (PLA) during a routine patrol in Manipur’s Tengnoupal district.
The incident occurred along the international border pillars, a region known for militant infiltration and cross-border movement. Official sources stated that the Assam Rifles team spotted suspicious movement in the vicinity while conducting their patrol duties. When they attempted to verify the identities of the individuals, the suspects tried to flee into the dense forest, triggering a swift response from the security personnel.
The troops quickly launched a cordon and search operation, effectively sealing off the area and preventing the escape of the suspects. After a brief search, the two individuals were successfully apprehended and later identified as Thingnam Amujao Singh and Kanjam Motea Meitei, both reportedly active members of the PLA, a banned insurgent outfit seeking independence for Manipur.
Following their detention, both individuals were handed over to the local police for further interrogation and legal proceedings. Authorities believe that the duo may have been attempting to cross the border into Myanmar, a known sanctuary for several northeastern militant groups.
Security officials have hailed the operation as a timely and effective response to potential insurgent activity in the sensitive border region. “This shows the high level of alertness and coordination among our border patrol units. Such actions are crucial to preventing armed groups from regrouping or smuggling weapons across international lines,” an official said.
Tengnoupal district, due to its proximity to Myanmar, has long been a strategic hotbed for insurgent movement, with PLA and other outfits often using forest routes and difficult terrain to bypass surveillance. The Assam Rifles, which has been leading counter-insurgency efforts in the area, has increased its patrolling frequency in recent months amid renewed concerns over cross-border infiltration.
