Major arms seizure in Manipur, 19 weapons and explosives seized in joint security operation

A significant joint operation led by the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, Manipur Police, and other security forces resulted in the seizure of 19 weapons, ammunition, and explosives across multiple districts of Manipur from January 6 to January 11. The operation, aimed at combating illegal arms trafficking and ensuring state security, involved extensive intelligence gathering and coordination between various security agencies.

On January 11, a major recovery operation in Thoubal district, based on specific intelligence, led to the seizure of a pistol, four single-barrel rifles, and grenades. This operation was part of a series of operations conducted across the state. Earlier, on January 8, a joint operation in Kangpokpi district resulted in the recovery of two rifles, one single-barrel rifle, one pistol, ammunition for two launch tubes, and other war-like stores.

The operation continued on January 6 and 9, with recoveries made in Thoubal and Kakching districts. These included a self-loading rifle, one single-barrel rifle, an improvised mortar, three pistols, grenades, and ammunition. These seizures were the result of ongoing security operations aimed at controlling the spread of illegal weapons in the region and preventing their use in escalating violence.

In another major operation on January 9, Assam Rifles and Manipur Police acted on a tip-off and recovered explosives and war-like stores from Jiribam district. The authorities discovered a significant amount of firearms, grenades, explosives, and ammunition. All the seized materials have been transferred to the Manipur Police for further investigation and processing.

This coordinated effort by the security forces comes amidst rising concerns over the ongoing ethnic conflict between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in Manipur, which has been ongoing since May 2023. The violence, initially triggered by the Manipur High Court's ruling regarding the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe list, has resulted in widespread unrest and casualties. The seizure of weapons and explosives is a crucial part of the broader security measures aimed at stabilizing the region and preventing further escalation of violence.

The successful recovery of such a large quantity of arms, ammunition, and explosives reflects the ongoing commitment of security agencies to curb illegal arms trade and restore peace to the region, although the situation remains volatile. The recovered items will aid investigations and support continued operations aimed at dismantling illegal arms networks in the state.