Manipur: Security Forces Dismantle 61 Illegal Bunkers and Multiple Checkpoints in Massive 36-Hour Operation
Imphal, June 18: Security forces have dismantled 61 illegal bunkers and removed several unauthorized checkpoints across Manipur during an intensive 36-hour operation aimed at strengthening security and restoring normalcy in conflict-affected areas of the state.
According to the Manipur Police morning bulletin issued on Thursday, the large-scale operation involved nearly 6,000 personnel who carried out coordinated search operations, combing exercises, and area-domination missions across multiple sensitive locations in both hill and valley districts.
A significant portion of the operation was conducted in the Leimakhong sector, covering the villages of Leilon Vaiphei, Leilon Khunou, L. Munlui, and Konsakhul in Kangpokpi district. During the exercise, security forces dismantled 30 bunkers, outposts, and strategically positioned camps that were allegedly being used by anti-social elements.
The operation also led to the recovery of a large cache of arms, ammunition, and tactical equipment. Seized items included eleven 12-bore Single Barrel Breech Loading (SBBL) guns, 294 live rounds of ammunition, 34 spent cartridges, two packets of gunpowder, and six bulletproof jackets.
Officials confirmed that four individuals were detained during the operation and are currently undergoing verification.
The latest crackdown follows similar security operations conducted on June 17 in various parts of the state. In the Saikul subdivision of Kangpokpi district, security forces demolished four illegal bunkers, including two each in Thingphai and C. Kholen villages.
Meanwhile, in neighbouring Churachandpur district, security personnel dismantled an illegal bunker and an unauthorized checkpoint in the S. Nabil and Loilamkoi areas as part of ongoing efforts to remove unlawful fortified structures.
Authorities stated that these operations form part of a broader strategy to improve law and order, curb armed activities, and prevent the misuse of fortified positions in conflict-prone regions.
Earlier this week, security forces had also destroyed 26 illegal bunkers in Ukhrul district during separate anti-insurgency operations. Officials reported that those structures had allegedly been established by anti-social elements linked to rival groups amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Security agencies have reiterated that such operations will continue across vulnerable areas of the state to ensure public safety, maintain peace, and prevent the resurgence of armed activities.
The latest security drive reflects the government’s continued efforts to dismantle illegal infrastructure, strengthen security presence, and restore stability in sensitive districts of Manipur.
