Three militants arrested in Manipur

Imphal: Security forces arrested three militants of various proscribed outfits in Manipur for allegedly being involved in extortion activities in Imphal East and Thoubal districts, police said on Tuesday.

One active cadre of the banned United National Liberation Front (P) was apprehended from the Khurai Kongpal area in Imphal East district on Monday, a senior officer said.

"The militant was accused of illegally settling issues through kangaroo courts in matters related to land disputes, crimes against women, and recovery of loan money in valley areas," he said.

An active cadre of the proscribed Kangleipak Communist Party (PWG) was also arrested from the Leirongthel Pitra area in Thoubal district on Sunday, the officer said.

The militant was allegedly involved in extortion activities, kidnapping and recruiting new cadres for the outfit, he said.

One active cadre of the outlawed Prepak (Pro) was apprehended from the Charangpat Mamang Leikai area in Thoubal district on Monday.

He was also accused of being involved in extortion, threatening people and kidnapping in Thoubal.

Security forces have been conducting search operations in Manipur since ethnic violence broke out two years ago.

More than 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023.

The Centre had on February 13 imposed the President’s rule in Manipur after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned.

The state assembly, which has a tenure till 2027, has been put under suspended animation.