Security forces net UNLF cadre and recover arms in Manipur

Imphal: Security forces picked up an alleged United National Liberation Front cadre in Imphal West on Sunday morning. Officers grabbed 45-year-old Ngangom Shanta Meitei, known as Michael, near RIMS Road. The suspect lives in Loushangkhong Awang Leikai within the Imphal East district.

Separately, the Koireng-led faction of the UNLF issued a statement distancing itself from 44-year-old Konsam Sanatomba. Police caught Sanatomba on August 9 in Telepati for allegedly shaking down non-Manipuri residents. Publicity secretary M. Sak Hen clarified the group's position. "The outfit also warned that strict action would be taken against individuals allegedly using the name of the UNLF or MPA to carry out extortion or other illegal activities."

Troops are cracking down. The India Reserve Battalion patrolled the Sehken-Khuga Dam area in Churachandpur to flush out contraband. They found a haul of gear tucked away in the territory. The stash included one single-barrel gun, one SMC carbine, and a .32 pistol with six live rounds. Soldiers also hauled in an improvised mortar and two Baofeng handheld radios. These operations hit two districts at once.