Manipur Intensifies Crackdown on Militants and Extortionists: 18 Arrested in Statewide Operations
News Summary
In a significant move to restore peace and order, Manipur’s security forces have arrested 18 individuals linked to various militant outfits and extortion rackets. These arrests, made during intensified operations across the state, led to the seizure of weapons, ammunition, and stolen goods. The crackdown underscores the government’s commitment to combating insurgency and ensuring public safety.
In-Depth Analysis: Unraveling Manipur’s Anti-Extortion Drive
The Rising Tide of Extortion in Manipur
Manipur, a state with a history of insurgency, has witnessed a resurgence of extortion activities in recent times. Armed groups have been coercing civilians, government officials, and businesses into paying ‘taxes’ or ‘donations’ under threats of violence. These unlawful activities have disrupted daily life and economic activities, necessitating a robust response from the authorities.
Formation of the Anti-Extortion Cell
In response to the escalating threat, the Manipur government established a dedicated anti-extortion cell under the Home Department. This unit comprises representatives from the Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Assam Rifles, and the Indian Army. The cell aims to create an efficient and robust mechanism to address extortion-related activities and ensure public safety.
Key Arrests and Seizures
The intensified operations led to the arrest of several individuals associated with various militant outfits:
- Kangleipak Communist Party (People’s War Group): Two active members were arrested from Imphal West, involved in extorting government departments and civilians. Seizures included ammunition, communication devices, a bulletproof vest, and a camouflage helmet.
- KCP (Apunba): A member was arrested from Salam Maning Leikai, Patsoi, with 46 live rounds of 5.56 mm caliber ammunition.
- Revolutionary People’s Front/People’s Liberation Army (RPF/PLA): A cadre involved in extorting money from government schools and the public in Imphal was arrested, with two mobile phones recovered.
- PREPAK (Pro): Two cadres were arrested from Chingarel Tejpur and Kakching District, involved in transporting logistics, arms, and food for the outfit.
- G5 Organization (affiliated with PREPAK): A member was arrested from Wahengbam Leikai Lairembi Maning, with a mobile phone and Aadhaar card recovered.
Additionally, four individuals were arrested for looting 18 mobile phones and two smartwatches worth Rs 5.5 lakh. The suspects, all from Imphal West, were caught with 11 phones, two vehicles, and a smartwatch.
Impact on Public Safety and Economy
The persistent extortion activities have instilled fear among the populace, leading to a surge in applications for arms licenses among businessmen, government employees, contractors, and even farmers. The economic activities have slowed down due to illegal taxes collected from trucks and harassment of businesses and educational institutions.
Public Cooperation and Reporting Mechanisms
To encourage public cooperation, the anti-extortion cell has established a 24-hour toll-free helpline (1800 202 3326) for reporting threats and extortion demands. The authorities assure confidentiality and prompt action upon receiving complaints.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What prompted the recent crackdown on extortion in Manipur?
The resurgence of extortion activities by militant groups, threatening civilians and disrupting economic activities, prompted the Manipur government to intensify operations and establish a dedicated anti-extortion cell
Q2: How can individuals report extortion threats in Manipur?
Individuals can report extortion threats by calling the 24-hour toll-free helpline at 1800 202 3326. The authorities assure confidentiality and prompt action upon receiving complaints
Q3: Which militant groups are primarily involved in extortion activities?
Groups such as the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), Revolutionary People’s Front/People’s Liberation Army (RPF/PLA), and People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) have been identified as primary actors in extortion activities in Manipur.
Q4: What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of transporters and businesses?
The authorities have deployed 16 companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) to ensure the safe passage of essential goods along major highways and have increased frisking and checking in identified extortion hotspots.
Q5: How has the public responded to the government’s anti-extortion initiatives?
The public has shown increased cooperation by reporting extortion threats, leading to several arrests. The establishment of a confidential helpline has encouraged more individuals to come forward without fear of retaliation.
