During the operation, law enforcement recovered two AK series rifles, one MK-3 rifle, one SBBL, and 1,382 rounds of assorted ammunition. The joint operation by Manipur Police and CRPF was based on intelligence inputs from the National Investigation Agency (NIA), leading to the arrest of three individuals and subsequent tension in Kangpokpi district.
The police have reported that three individuals, known as Thangjoel Haokip alias Thangboi, Jangjoulen Khongsai alias Goulen, and Jangminlun Singson alias Franky, are affiliated with an underground organization. According to the statement, these arrested individuals are suspected of being involved in various criminal activities in recent times. The arrested suspects, along with the seized weapons and ammunition, have been handed over to the NIA for further legal action. The security forces demonstrated maximum restraint during the operation and responded in self-defence when they were fired upon by armed militants and obstructed by civilians.
During the operation, law enforcement recovered two AK series rifles, one MK-3 rifle, one SBBL, and 1,382 rounds of assorted ammunition. However, Kuki groups such as Kuki Inpi and Committee on Tribal Unity have claimed that the three individuals were “village volunteers” tasked with protecting Kuki villages from attacks by Meitei armed individuals and Manipur police. These groups deny the police’s assertion that the arrested individuals are members of an insurgent group. In response to the arrests, the two organizations have announced a 12-hour “shutdown” on Tuesday to voice their opposition.
Over 200 individuals have lost their lives in confrontations between the Meitei and Kuki tribes in Manipur, with tensions persisting despite ongoing efforts by security forces and the government to resolve the conflict.