Arms haul in Manipur: Over 200 illegal weapons seized
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Imphal: A combined team of security forces have successfully recovered a substantial cache of arms, ammunition and explosives during search operations conducted from the night of July 3 to the morning of July 4 across the state.
The operations, which were based on specific intelligence inputs, involved coordinated efforts by Manipur Police, Assam Rifles/Army, and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) across the hill districts of Tengnoupal, Kangpokpi, Chandel and Churachandpur.
The crackdown on illegal weapons resulted in one of the largest seizures in recent times, with a total of 203 weapons recovered. The cache included 21 INSAS rifles, 11 AK-series rifles, 26 SLRs, two sniper rifles, three carbines, 17 .303 rifles, two 51mm mortars, two MA assault rifles, three M79 grenade launchers, 38 'Pompi' improvised guns, as well as several pistols, bolt-action rifles, and country-made firearms.
Additionally, security forces seized 30 improvised explosive devices (IEDs), 10 grenades, nine Pompi shells, two Lathode grenades, and significant quantities of 5.56mm and 7.62mm ammunition. This operation marks a significant step in curbing armed violence and dismantling militant infrastructure in the region. Authorities suspect that the arms were intended for use by insurgent groups or anti-social elements.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Security forces remain on high alert, with further operations anticipated to eliminate remaining caches and maintain peace in the region.
In a related development, a 41-year-old man was arrested by Manipur Police in Imphal East on July 2 for possession of illegal firearms. The police recovered a .32 pistol with a magazine, one live .32mm round, and a 7.62 x 30mm AK rifle round from the suspect, identified as Thokchom Rajesh Meitei of Bamon Kampu Mayai Leikai.
The arrest is part of intensified search operations and area domination exercises conducted by security forces in vulnerable and fringe regions across multiple districts.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to continuing search operations in sensitive areas to curb the spread of illegal arms and ensure public safety.
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