Manipur Police Arrest Woman Linked to PREPAK-Pro Extortion Network
Summary of the News Article
On April 11, 2025, Manipur Police Commandos arrested 43-year-old Moirangmayum Sapana Devi, also known as Naocha, in Lilong Bazar, Thoubal District. She was apprehended while collecting extortion money on behalf of the banned militant group, People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak – Progressive (PREPAK-Pro). The arrest followed multiple complaints from local shopkeepers and residents about ongoing extortion activities in the area. Authorities seized a mobile phone and an Aadhaar card from her possession. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the extent of her involvement and possible links to other operatives.
Unveiling the Shadows: Inside Manipur’s Battle Against Militant Extortion
The Arrest That Shook Lilong Bazar
In a decisive move against insurgent-linked extortion, Manipur Police Commandos arrested 43-year-old Moirangmayum Sapana Devi, alias Naocha, in Lilong Bazar, Thoubal District. Acting on multiple complaints from local shopkeepers and residents about ongoing extortion activities, the anti-extortion unit launched an operation that led to her apprehension. Authorities seized a mobile phone and an Aadhaar card from her possession. Investigations revealed that she had been channeling the collected funds to the proscribed People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak – Progressive (PREPAK-Pro), thereby aiding the group’s extortion racket. NorthEast Now
Understanding PREPAK-Pro’s Influence
PREPAK-Pro, a banned militant group, has been involved in various insurgent activities in Manipur. The group’s operations often rely on extortion to fund their activities, targeting local businesses and residents. The arrest of individuals like Sapana Devi highlights the group’s strategy of involving civilians in their financial operations, making it challenging for authorities to trace and dismantle their networks.NorthEast Now
The Community’s Role in Combating Extortion
The success of the operation in Lilong Bazar underscores the importance of community involvement in combating insurgent activities. The multiple complaints from shopkeepers and residents were instrumental in initiating the investigation that led to Sapana Devi’s arrest. This collaboration between the community and law enforcement agencies is crucial in identifying and addressing threats posed by militant groups.NorthEast Now
Broader Implications for Manipur’s Security
The arrest is part of a series of operations aimed at curbing insurgent activities in Manipur. On the same day, authorities arrested three militants involved in extortion and arms trafficking in separate raids across the state. These coordinated efforts reflect the government’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. NorthEast Now+1NorthEast Now+1
Challenges in Addressing Insurgent Activities
Despite these successes, combating insurgent activities in Manipur remains a complex challenge. Militant groups often operate in remote areas, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to monitor and intervene. Additionally, the involvement of civilians in these networks complicates efforts to dismantle them without affecting innocent individuals.
The Path Forward: Strategies for Sustainable Peace
To effectively address the issue of militant extortion, a multifaceted approach is necessary:
- Enhanced Intelligence Gathering: Investing in intelligence capabilities can help identify and monitor insurgent activities more effectively.
- Community Engagement: Building trust between law enforcement agencies and local communities encourages information sharing and cooperation.
- Economic Development: Providing economic opportunities can reduce the appeal of joining insurgent groups for financial gain.
- Legal Reforms: Strengthening legal frameworks to address insurgent activities ensures that perpetrators are held accountable.
Conclusion
The arrest of Moirangmayum Sapana Devi marks a significant step in Manipur’s ongoing efforts to combat insurgent-linked extortion. While challenges remain, the collaboration between communities and law enforcement agencies offers a promising path toward restoring peace and security in the region.NorthEast Now
FAQs
- Who is Moirangmayum Sapana Devi?
- She is a 43-year-old woman arrested for allegedly collecting extortion money on behalf of the banned militant group PREPAK-Pro in Manipur.NorthEast Now
- What is PREPAK-Pro?
- PREPAK-Pro stands for People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak – Progressive, a banned militant group involved in insurgent activities in Manipur.NorthEast Now+1NorthEast Now+1
- How did the authorities apprehend Sapana Devi?
- Acting on multiple complaints from local shopkeepers and residents about ongoing extortion activities, the anti-extortion unit of the Lilong Police Commandos launched an operation that led to her arrest.NorthEast Now
- What was seized during the arrest?
- Authorities seized a mobile phone and an Aadhaar card from her possession.NorthEast Now
- What are the broader implications of this arrest?
- The arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to dismantle insurgent networks and restore peace in Manipur.
