Massive Arms and Ammunition Seizure: In a significant operation, security forces in Manipur have confiscated a large cache of arms and ammunition from three districts of the conflict-ridden state. The seizure, which involved coordinated efforts by the Manipur Police and Assam Rifles, comes amidst ongoing ethnic tensions in the region. The state police confirmed the recovery of multiple weapons, including hand grenades, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and various firearms.
Details of the Seizures
The combined forces of Manipur Police and Assam Rifles conducted an operation in the Loiching ridge in Kangpokpi district, leading to the discovery of a substantial weapons cache. Among the recovered items were:
- Two .303 rifles
- One 9mm pistol complete with a magazine
- A cache of cartridges
- Four hand grenades
- Two detonators
- One country-made mortar
- One long-range improvised mortar
In addition to the Kangpokpi district operation, further searches were carried out in Churachandpur district. In Gothol village, state police along with the Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) seized two improvised mortars, locally referred to as “pumpi.” These powerful makeshift weapons are capable of inflicting significant damage, posing a serious threat in the already volatile region.
Another crucial seizure took place in Thoubal district, where the joint forces of Manipur Police and Assam Rifles recovered:
- Four HE-36 hand grenades
- Two additional ‘pumpi’ shells
- Three detonators
- One stun grenade
- One stinger grenade
- One tear gas shell
These weapons were uncovered during an area domination and search exercise carried out by security personnel on Friday. Despite the substantial recoveries, no arrests have been made so far in connection with the seizures. However, the authorities remain vigilant and are continuing investigations to track down individuals or groups responsible for stockpiling these dangerous weapons.
Ongoing Violence and Ethnic Conflict in Manipur
Manipur has been grappling with severe ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, following clashes between the Meitei community, based in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki tribes residing in the adjoining hill areas. The conflict has claimed more than 200 lives and displaced thousands of people, leaving many homeless and in need of humanitarian assistance.
The violence stems from long-standing tensions between the two communities over land rights, political representation, and autonomy. The Meiteis, who make up the majority of the state’s population, have been seeking Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, a demand that has been met with fierce opposition from the Kuki community and other tribal groups who fear that such a move would lead to the Meiteis gaining access to tribal lands and resources in the hill regions.
Since the outbreak of violence, Manipur has witnessed widespread unrest, with clashes between armed groups, arson, and large-scale displacement. Security forces have been actively working to restore peace in the region, launching search operations and area domination exercises to curb the flow of illegal arms and prevent further escalation of violence.
Efforts by Security Forces to Restore Order
The recent seizures of arms and ammunition highlight the ongoing efforts of security forces to neutralize threats in the region. The combined operations of the Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, BSF, and CRPF have been instrumental in conducting successful search operations in the conflict-hit districts. These coordinated efforts are part of a broader strategy to regain control of the areas that have been affected by insurgent activities and communal tensions.
By targeting locations such as the Loiching ridge, Gothol village, and the Phainom hill range, security forces are working to dismantle the networks responsible for smuggling and storing illegal weapons. Their goal is to reduce the firepower of insurgent groups and prevent the recurrence of violent clashes that have plagued the state.
Massive Arms and Ammunition Seizure: No Arrests, but Investigation Continues
Despite the success of the operations, no arrests have been made so far in connection with the seized weapons. Security officials have assured that investigations are ongoing, and they are confident that those responsible for stockpiling the arms will be apprehended soon. Intelligence agencies are working closely with local authorities to track down suspects and prevent future arms trafficking in the region.
The recent seizure of a large cache of arms and ammunition in Manipur underscores the gravity of the situation in the state. With ethnic tensions continuing to simmer, security forces are on high alert, conducting regular operations to prevent further violence. The recovery of rifles, grenades, and improvised mortars reflects the scale of the threat posed by armed groups in the region.
As the conflict between the Meitei and Kuki communities persists, it is crucial for security forces to maintain their vigilance and continue their efforts to restore peace and stability. The Manipur government, along with central authorities, must also focus on addressing the root causes of the conflict and fostering dialogue between the warring factions to bring an end to the violence.