15-07-2025
AK-series rifles, SLRs & mortar among 86 arms seized in Manipur valley dists
Imphal: In a major crackdown on illegal arms possession, security forces recovered a large cache of arms, ammunition, and explosives during early morning operations on Tuesday across valley districts of Manipur.
"Acting on specific intelligence regarding concealed weapon stockpiles, joint teams comprising Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and Army/Assam Rifles launched coordinated raids in Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching, and Bishnupur districts," Manipur IGP (intelligence) K Kabib told the mediapersons at a press conference on Tuesday.
The operations led to the seizure of 86 weapons, including five AK-series rifles, three INSAS rifles, 16 SLRs, five .303 rifles, 19 pistols, two carbines, 60 assorted rifles, and other warlike stores such as anti-riot guns, SBBL/bore action guns, JVPCs, bolt-action rifles, and one two-inch mortar.
A total of 974 rounds of live ammunition — including 7.62mm, 5.56mm, .303, 9mm, and .32mm rounds — were recovered along with nine grenades, six HE mortar shells, two tube launchers, and four improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The raids also yielded 41 magazines and six wireless handsets.
Calling it a major achievement in ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal arms networks and strengthen law and order, Kabib said the recovery would bolster peace initiatives across the state. He urged citizens to report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or the Central Control Room.
"We remain committed to working in close coordination with all security stakeholders. Targeted operations will continue in a sustained and strategic manner to safeguard the lives and property of our citizens," he added.
