Security forces arrest two militants in Manipur arms and extortion raids

Imphal: Security forces picked up two militants in Manipur this week. The arrests took place in Imphal West as part of a push to break insurgent supply lines. Police confirmed the news on Thursday.

Officers nabbed a 55-year-old member of the People's Liberation Army on Wednesday in the Tabungkhok area. He stands accused of moving illegal weapons and ammunition. A day earlier, troops caught a 26-year-old cadre from the National Revolutionary Front of Manipur near Sagoltongba Makha Leikai. This man allegedly shook down locals for cash.

Both suspects fell under the jurisdiction of the Patsoi Police Station. Authorities stated these busts form part of ongoing counter-insurgency operations. The state police said, "The arrests were part of ongoing counter-insurgency operations aimed at curbing the activities of militant groups operating in the state."

Troops remain on edge. They have boosted patrols and search operations in fringe areas since ethnic violence broke out in May 2023. That conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities has left over 260 people dead. Thousands lost their homes. Security units continue to scour the region to hold the line.