Imphal (Manipur) [India]: In a series of operations on March 8 and 9, Manipur Police arrested 15 cadres belonging to various insurgent groups across the state, according to an official statement. The situation in the state was described as tense but under control with security forces conducting search operations and area domination in vulnerable districts.
Key Arrests and Recoveries
1. Arrest of NRFM Cadres
- On March 9, five active cadres of the National Revolutionary Front of Manipur (NRFM) were arrested from Gandhi Avenue, Thangal Bazar in Imphal West.
- Arrested Individuals:
- Keisham Robertson Meitei @ Nanao (29)
- Moirangthem Tanu Devi @ Chinglembi (21)
- Nameirakpam Rashini Devi @ Thoibi (25)
- Meikam Ichan Chanu (32)
- Laishram Menaka Chanu @ Lanchenbl (27)
- Seized Items: One two-wheeler, five mobile phones, and one ID card.
- Involvement: Accused of extortion and transportation of arms and ammunition.
2. Arrest of PREPAK (Pro) Cadres
- Two cadres were arrested from Khongman Nandeibam Leikai, Imphal East, identified as:
- Chirom Rostam Meitei @ Chiromba (25)
- Heikrujam Arvind Singh @ Micheal (32)
- Three more were arrested from Heinoupok, Imphal West:
- Laishram Boboi Meitei @ Boishemba (28)
- Palujam Babu Singh @ Luthumba (25)
- Yumnam Athoibi Chanu
- Charges: Extortion from the general public, private firms, and government officials.
- Recovered: Multiple mobile phones.
3. Arrest of KCP (PWG) Cadres
- Sorokhaibam Inaoton Singh (38) was arrested at RIMS Main Gate, Lamphel with a mobile handset.
- Shandham Romen Singh (39) was arrested with 11 incriminating demand letters in Imphal West.
- Involvement: Extortion targeting government officials and the general public.
4. Arrest of UPPK Cadres
- Three active cadres of United People’s Party of Kangleipak (UPPK) were arrested from Langol Type – II, Imphal West:
- Ngangbam Nishan Meitei (24)
- Ashangbam Manikanta Singh (37)
- Sorokhaibam Nganthoi Singh (23)
- Seized Items: Two four-wheelers, three mobile handsets, and other miscellaneous items.
- Involvement: Extortion through illegal tribunals.
Other Significant Arrests
- One KYKL cadre, Mohen Takhellambam @ Renyai (29), was apprehended near Moreh-PS, Tengnoupal District.
- Involvement: Extortion and insurgent activities.
Security Measures and Public Appeal
- 109 checkpoints have been installed across hill and valley districts to ensure free and safe movement of vehicles carrying essential items.
- Police Appeal:
- Urged the public not to believe in rumours or circulate false information on social media.
- Requested immediate return of looted weapons, ammunition, and explosives to the nearest security forces.
- Rumour Verification Contact: 9233522822 (Central Control Room).
- Warning: Legal action will be taken against those spreading fake news.
Background: President’s Rule Imposed in Manipur
- President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13 following a report from the state governor.
- Impact: Powers of the Manipur Legislative Assembly were transferred to Parliament, effectively suspending the state government’s authority.
- Trigger: Violence erupted on May 3 last year following clashes during a rally organized by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU) against the demand for including the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe category.
Summary
The arrest of 15 insurgent cadres and the recovery of arms and extorted money highlight the ongoing tensions in Manipur. With President’s Rule in place, security forces are intensifying efforts to restore order and curb insurgent activities. The police have also appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate by returning looted arms and avoiding rumours.