Manipur: Police Arrest PREPAK (PRO) Cadre, Recover Arms in Separate Operations
Manipur Police carried out two coordinated operations on August 26–27, 2025: they arrested a 26-year-old active cadre of the proscribed outfit PREPAK (PRO) — identified as Nongmaithem Naocha Meetei — in Imphal East, and in a separate operation in Jiribam recovered a significant cache of arms and equipment including a 7.62mm SLR, a 5.56mm INSAS rifle, two pistols, around 41 rounds of ammunition and multiple radio sets. These actions are part of ongoing security operations across the state to disrupt militant activity and arms caches.
What exactly happened — the facts on record
Here’s a clear timeline so you aren’t left guessing:
- On August 26–27, 2025, Manipur police conducted at least two separate operations in different districts. In Imphal East, officers arrested Nongmaithem Naocha Meetei (26) from Napet Palli in the Lamlai police station area; police identified him as an active cadre of PREPAK (PRO).
- In a different but possibly related operation in Rashidpur area under Jiribam police station, security forces recovered a substantial arms cache: a 7.62 mm Self-Loading Rifle (SLR), a 5.56 mm INSAS rifle, two pistols, and approximately 41 rounds of ammunition across several calibres. Officials also seized six handheld radio sets (with a charger), two rifle magazines, one ammunition pouch, and jungle shoes — the kind of gear that lets militants operate in rough, forested terrain.
- The presence of multiple radio sets and ammunition suggests not a lone operator but at least a small-unit capability — the means to coordinate and stay mobile in difficult geography. The police framed these actions as part of a broader push to ensure peace and security in the state
Why the weapons seized matter — not all guns are equal
At first glance a rifle is a rifle, but the types of weapons tell a story:
- A 7.62mm SLR (Self-Loading Rifle) is a serious weapon — accurate, reliable, and suited for engagements at medium range. It’s not a crude handgun; it’s battlefield kit.
- A 5.56mm INSAS rifle is standard issue for Indian forces and has been reported in several recovery seizures; its presence can mean illicit redistribution from battlefield captures or illegal procurement channels.
- Pistols and handheld radios indicate close-quarters capability and intent to communicate and coordinate on the move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who was arrested and where?
Authorities arrested Nongmaithem Naocha Meetei (26) from Napet Palli in the Lamlai police station area of Imphal East, and announced recoveries of a weapons cache in the Rashidpur area under Jiribam police station.
2. What weapons were recovered by the police?
Security forces recovered a 7.62mm SLR, a 5.56mm INSAS rifle, two pistols, about 41 rounds of ammunition, six handheld radio sets, two rifle magazines, one ammunition pouch and jungle shoes.
3. Is PREPAK (PRO) a new group?
No. PREPAK — the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak — has existed since the late 1970s in various factional forms. “PRO” refers to a specific faction; the group has a history of armed struggle and has been proscribed. For a deeper background, see security trackers and profiles on PREPAK.
4. Do these seizures mean the insurgency is weakening?
Not necessarily. Seizures reduce immediate capacity, but insurgent networks adapt by relocating caches, changing routes, or recruiting anew. Sustained pressure on financing, supply chains and recruitment is needed to produce durable weakening.
5. How can local communities help reduce militant activity?
Communities can assist by reporting suspicious activity through safe channels, supporting youth development programs that reduce economic incentives to join militant groups, and cooperating with law enforcement in trust-building initiatives.
