Manipur: NIA Arrests Alleged UKNA Finance Head Linked to Tronglaobi Bombing
Imphal, Manipur: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested S Palal Kuki, who investigators allege is the self-styled Finance Head of the proscribed United Kuki National Army (UKNA), in Manipur’s Churachandpur district.
Kuki was arrested on August 12, 2026, from an alleged hideout in Old Gelmol village during a joint counter-insurgency operation involving the Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, Indian Army and CRPF.
Alleged UKNA Finance Head Arrested
According to officials, the arrest followed sustained intelligence gathering and an investigation into the activities of senior members of the UKNA who are allegedly involved in subversive and terror-related activities.
During questioning, Kuki allegedly identified himself as the organisation’s finance head.
Investigators said a combination of digital forensic evidence, technical inputs and human intelligence helped establish his alleged links to several cases registered across Manipur.
Authorities are examining his suspected role in multiple incidents involving firing attacks, an alleged bombing and confrontations with security forces.
Several Violent Incidents Under Investigation
According to investigators, Kuki has allegedly been linked to a number of incidents reported between late 2025 and 2026.
These include a bomb blast at Torbung on December 16, 2025, and a firing incident in the Molnom area during the intervening night of February 3 and 4, 2026.
Police also alleged that Kuki was involved in a firing incident at Kaprang on July 4, 2026, which occurred ahead of Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s visit to Churachandpur.
Investigators are also examining his alleged links to incidents involving security personnel in March 2026.
These reportedly include a firing incident during a recce operation on March 25 and another firing incident near a CRPF camp in Bishnupur district on March 26.
Alleged Link to Tronglaobi Bombing Case
The most significant case connected to Kuki is the Tronglaobi bombing case, which was initially registered as FIR No. 23(4)2026 at Moirang Police Station.
The case was subsequently taken over by the NIA and registered as RC-04/2026/NIA/IMP.
The bombing occurred on April 7, 2026, at Tronglaobi Awang Leikai in Bishnupur district.
According to the investigation, a close-range explosion at a civilian residence resulted in the deaths of two siblings, aged five years and five months, while their mother, Oinam Binita, sustained critical injuries.
The incident had triggered widespread concern over attacks targeting civilian locations and prompted further investigation by central agencies.
NIA Investigation Continues
The NIA said its investigation into Kuki’s alleged involvement in the Tronglaobi bombing and other cases remains ongoing.
Investigators are examining available evidence, including digital and technical inputs, to determine the extent of his alleged role and identify any wider network connected to the incidents.
Officials said further legal action will be taken in accordance with the law as the investigation progresses.
UKNA Not Part of Suspension of Operations Agreement
The United Kuki National Army (UKNA) is an armed insurgent organisation operating primarily in the hill districts of Manipur.
According to authorities, the outfit is not part of the government’s Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement.
The group has been accused by authorities of involvement in armed clashes, blockades, attacks on civilian locations and other militant activities.
The latest arrest comes amid intensified security and counter-insurgency operations across Manipur, with agencies continuing investigations into armed groups and violence-related cases.
Disclaimer: The allegations concerning S Palal Kuki’s organisational position and involvement in specific incidents are based on information attributed to investigating agencies and police. They remain allegations unless established through judicial proceedings.
