Security Forces Smash Illegal Bunkers and Seize Weapons in Manipur

Imphal: Joint security forces tore down four illegal bunkers in Ukhrul district on Thursday. The operation targeted fortifications at Thoyee and Jalenbung villages. Armed groups from Tangkhul Naga and Kuki communities built these positions to seize hill ranges and launch attacks. The Litan area, where these bunkers stood, saw fierce fighting between February and April 2026. Those clashes resulted in seven deaths and dozens of burned homes.

Police noted, "The fortified positions were also allegedly used to launch attacks and retaliatory strikes amid the ethnic violence that has gripped the region." No arrests followed the demolition.

In a separate strike near Chaljang village in Chandel, troops raided a cache of hidden hardware. They pulled an AK-56 rifle, five magazines, ten single-barrel rifles, and two 12-bore shotguns from the site. The sweep also netted five Baofeng radio sets. Everything went to the Manipur Police for processing. Forces continue to hunt for weapons to stop the bloodshed.