Manipur Police Bust Extortionist Gang: Three Arrested
In a significant operation, Manipur police have dismantled an extortionist gang operating under the guise of a militant group, apprehending three individuals involved in threatening and extorting locals in the valley districts.
Summary of the Incident
On March 24, 2025, the Manipur police successfully apprehended three individuals—Wahengbam Wanglen Meitei (22), Moirangthem Changkhonba Singh (18), and Khundongbam Meghachandra Singh (19)—who were impersonating members of the Kangleipak Communist Party – People’s War Group. They were involved in extortion and abduction activities across various areas of the Imphal West district. The police recovered a vehicle, extorted money, mobile phones, and demand letters from the suspects.
Detailed Account of the Operation
The operation commenced following reports of unidentified individuals carrying small firearms, knives, and demand letters, who were extorting money from residents in different parts of the Imphal West district. These individuals threatened victims using the name of the underground Kangleipak Communist Party – People’s War Group. Acting on this intelligence, the police registered a case and initiated an investigation.
Utilizing a combination of technical resources and human intelligence, the investigation led to the identification and subsequent arrest of the three suspects. A joint team comprising civil police and central forces conducted the arrests at Lamdeng Khunou under Lamsang Police Station in Imphal West District. Telegraph India+2India TV News+2Manipur+2
Items Seized
During the operation, the police seized several items from the suspects, including:
- Three mobile phonesTelegraph India+6The Economic Times+6Under Coverist+6
- Three wallets containing Rs. 1,000, Rs. 170, and Rs. 500, respectively
- One four-wheeler vehicleThe Economic Times
- Incriminating documents, including demand lettersIndia TV News+6The Economic Times+6www.ndtv.com+6
Context of Extortion Activities in Manipur
Extortion has been a persistent issue in Manipur, with various groups resorting to such activities to fund their operations. The state’s unique socio-political landscape, characterized by multiple ethnic communities and insurgent groups, has contributed to the prevalence of extortion.The Assam Tribune+3The Assam Tribune+3Telegraph India+3
Recent Crackdowns on Extortion
In recent months, Manipur police have intensified efforts to curb extortion activities:The Assam Tribune+2The Assam Tribune+2Manipur+2
- December 2024: Three members of a banned organization were arrested in Imphal West district for extortion and illegal weapons possession. India TV News+1The Economic Times+1
- February 2025: Security forces conducted coordinated raids across Imphal East, Imphal West, Bishnupur, and Thoubal districts, leading to multiple arrests and the seizure of arms, explosives, and incriminating documents related to organized extortion. The Assam Tribune
- March 2025: Seventeen militants, including three women, were arrested in separate operations across Imphal West, Imphal East, and Tengnoupal districts. The militants were involved in extortion, transportation of arms and ammunition, and other criminal activities. The Economic Times
Impact on Local Communities
Extortion activities have adversely affected local communities, leading to economic hardships and a climate of fear. Businesses, traders, and even ordinary citizens have been targeted, disrupting daily life and economic activities. The recent arrests and crackdowns by the police have been welcomed by the public, offering a sense of relief and hope for improved security.
Conclusion
The successful operation by the Manipur police to dismantle the extortionist gang impersonating militants underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to restore peace and security in the region. Continued vigilance and community cooperation are essential to eradicate such criminal activities and ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.
FAQs
- What led to the arrest of the extortionist gang in Imphal West?
- Reports of individuals carrying weapons and demand letters, extorting money while impersonating militants, prompted the police investigation leading to the arrests.
- What items were recovered from the arrested individuals?
- The police seized mobile phones, wallets containing cash, a four-wheeler vehicle, and incriminating documents, including demand letters.The Economic Times
- How has extortion affected local communities in Manipur?
- Extortion has led to economic hardships, instilled fear among residents, and disrupted daily life and business activities.
- What measures are being taken to combat extortion in Manipur?
- The police have intensified operations, conducting raids and arrests to dismantle extortion networks and enhance security.
- Are there specific groups involved in extortion activities in Manipur?
- Various insurgent groups and local gangs have been implicated in extortion activities to fund their operations.Telegraph India
