Imphal, August 11, 2024 — Security forces in Manipur have intensified their crackdown on illegal arms activities, making significant seizures across the state’s hill and valley districts. These actions are part of ongoing search operations and area domination exercises aimed at securing vulnerable regions prone to unrest.
One of the key operations took place in Molnom village, located in Tengnoupal District. During a routine check, security personnel uncovered a diverse array of items, including two double-barrel guns, a Motorola handheld device, a pair of binoculars, and three Aadhaar cards, indicating potential links to illegal activities.
In separate raids conducted in Mongjam and Taorem villages in Imphal East District, the forces confiscated a single-barrel country-made gun, two suspected improvised explosive devices (IEDs), a 9mm country-made pistol with a magazine, and five live rounds of ammunition. The operation also led to the discovery of eight HE-36 hand grenades, two tube launchers, an INSAS rifle magazine, four .303 LMG magazines, two ‘BAOFENG’ radio sets, three smoke grenades, and a stun grenade.
Another successful operation in the foothills of Wathou Ridge in Thoubal District yielded a modified AK rifle, a bore barrel, an anti-riot gun, and two 9mm country-made pistols. The cache also included ten HE-36 hand grenades, a 2-inch mortar shell, an 80 MK-I shell, four rubber bullets, tear smoke shells, 54 rounds of live ammunition, three detonators, two Baofeng radio sets, and various MK cartridges.
These operations highlight the ongoing efforts by security forces to dismantle networks involved in the illegal arms trade and maintain peace in Manipur. The significant seizures are a testament to the forces’ dedication to curbing the spread of illegal arms, contributing to the overall safety and stability of the state.