Imphal, Jan 24: Ahead of Republic Day celebrations, security forces in Manipur have intensified operations against insurgent groups, leading to the recovery of a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, communication equipment, and combat gear from multiple locations in Imphal West and Imphal East districts over the past two days.
On January 23, security personnel conducted a search operation in the adjoining areas of Ngairangbam and Khongakhul villages under Patsoi Police Station in Imphal West district. The operation led to the recovery of a modified .303 rifle with magazine, a locally made single-barrel breech-loading (SBBL) firearm, five pistols with magazines, an air pistol, and a No. 36 high-explosive grenade.
The forces also seized 20 rounds of .303 ammunition, a Baofeng handheld communication set with charger, and a bulletproof jacket cover, an official said.
In another operation on January 22, security forces recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition from the foothills of the Chanung Hill Range under Sagolmang Police Station in Imphal East district.
Recovered items included a .303 rifle with magazine, an SLR without magazine, eight SBBL firearms, a revolver, a .22 pistol with magazine, and 24 rounds of live ammunition of various calibres.
The security forces also seized five tube-launching devices, six lathode shells, an MK-13T cartridge, and multiple Baofeng walkie-talkie sets with batteries and chargers, indicating the presence of organised and well-equipped elements, a police official said.
Camouflage uniforms and accessories—including helmets, pants, shirts, sweatshirts, belts, and hats—were also recovered, suggesting preparedness for sustained armed activity.
“We have tightened security measures in all sensitive areas to thwart any eventuality. A slew of measures has been put in place to ensure law and order during the Republic Day celebrations,” the official added.
