15 militants held, 69 weapons, 16 IEDs recovered in a week in Manipur

Guwahati: In a series of counter insurgency operations, security forces in strife-torn Manipur arrested 15 militants and recovered 69 weapons and 16 IEDs, both in the hills and the Valley since July 29.

A defence spokesperson based at Kohima in Nagaland on Monday evening said the operations were carried out in Meitei-dominated Bishnupur, Thoubal, Imphal East and Imphal West and in Kuki-dominated Churachandpur district.

Army, Assam Rifles, Manipur Police and some other security agencies were part of the operations, he said.

The arrested militants belong mainly to factions of the Valley-based insurgent groups, UNLF, KCP, PLA and KYKL. Most of them were found involved in extortion, threats and illegal possession of weapons.

The operations carried out at Songpi village in Churachandpur on July 29 led to recovery of 12 weapons that including four 9 mm pistols, six single-barrel rifles, One M79 grenade launcher and one .22 rifle along with its magazine.

"These coordinated actions underscore the firm resolve of the security forces to maintain peace and stability in the region while preventing the resurgence of insurgent activities," said a statement issued by the army and Assam Rifles on Monday.

Operations against insurgents have been stepped up since the President's Rule was promulgated in Manipur on February. The President's rule was imposed due to the conflict involving the Meitei and the Kuki community since May 2023.