Manipur Security Forces Recover 67 Weapons, Foil Major Arms Smuggling Attempt
In a major security crackdown in Manipur, police and joint security forces recovered 67 weapons and a large cache of ammunition during multiple operations in the Lamdeng area under Lamshang Police Station. Four individuals, including cadres linked to the UNLF (P), were arrested in connection with the alleged illegal arms trade.
According to an official police statement, the operation began on May 20 after security agencies received intelligence inputs about attempts to sell looted arms and ammunition in the Lamshang region.
During the first phase of the operation, security personnel apprehended two alleged active cadres of the UNLF (P), identified as Heishnam Thomas Singh (29) from Mayang Imphal Kokchai and Arambam Tomtom Singh (29) from Lamshang Heibongpokpi Mayai Leikai. Authorities recovered one INSAS Light Machine Gun (LMG), three INSAS LMG magazines, and 14 live rounds from their possession.
Police stated that during the operation, associates of the arrested cadres allegedly opened fire on security forces, resulting in a brief exchange of gunfire. Following the incident, two more suspects — Ningthoujam Rakesh Singh and Chingakham Mahesh Singh — were detained for allegedly firing at the security team.
During preliminary interrogation, the accused reportedly revealed that they had arrived to sell the seized weapon under the instructions of self-styled Lance Corporal Naorem Bijoy alias Macha, allegedly associated with the UNLF (P). Investigators also claimed the accused admitted involvement in earlier incidents involving the sale of looted weapons and ammunition.
Acting on information gathered during the interrogation, a joint team of Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, and CRPF launched a cordon-and-search operation at an alleged unauthorised UNLF (P) camp in Lamdeng. The operation led to the recovery of 29 weapons, including AK-series rifles, M-series rifles, pistols, and other firearms.
On May 21, security forces conducted another follow-up operation and recovered an additional 38 weapons along with heavy military-grade equipment. The seized items reportedly included AK-series rifles, M-series rifles, sniper rifles, carbines, mortars, shotguns, an RPG-7 launcher, an anti-drone jammer, explosives, and a large quantity of ammunition.
Officials described the operation as one of the biggest recent recoveries of illegal weapons in the state and stressed that continued public support is essential in combating illegal arms trafficking and restoring peace in the conflict-hit region.
Manipur Police urged citizens to immediately inform nearby police stations about any illegally possessed or looted weapons, emphasizing that public cooperation remains crucial for maintaining law and order across the state.
