Manipur Operations: 4 Militants Among 5 Arrested, 26 Firearms Seized

Speedy Summary

• Security forces in Manipur arrested five individuals on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, for alleged involvement in extortion activities. Four of them belong to banned militant outfits.
• Arrests include:

– A cadre of the Peoples’ Liberation Army and an associate at Ngaikhong Khunou checkpoint, Bishnupur district.
– One member of Kangleipak Communist Party (PWG) in Thoubal district.
– An active cadre of Prepak (Pro) from Taothong Khunou locality, Imphal West district.
– Another member of KCP (PWG) was apprehended from Kairang Chingya in Imphal East district.

• Extortion by these individuals targeted contractors, businessmen, and civilians across Imphal and Bishnupur areas.
• In separate operations on the same day:

– Security forces recovered 26 firearms, nine explosives, and ammunition in Churachandpur and Thoubal districts during ongoing search efforts linked to ethnic unrest as May 2023.

• Context: Ethnic violence has resulted in over 260 deaths since May 2023 between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities; thousands rendered homeless.
• As part of these developments:

– President’s Rule was imposed on February 13 after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned; the state assembly remains under suspended animation.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The arrests underscore ongoing security challenges stemming from persistent criminal activities facilitated by militant networks in Manipur amidst longstanding ethnic tension between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups.Such operations by authorities aim to curb extortion-related disruptions that further destabilize a region already grappling with widespread displacement and violence.

Additionally, recovery of arms demonstrates proactive measures by security forces to neutralize threats posed by insurgents but also highlights persistent stockpiles fueling conflict despite two years of intervention attempts following escalated unrest. Sustained law enforcement actions remain critical to restoring stability while addressing deep-rooted ethnic grievances potentially exacerbated under prolonged President’s Rule.

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