Manipur Police Crackdown on Extortion and Illegal Activities: Five Arrested
đź“° News Summary
In a significant move to combat the rising menace of extortion and illegal activities, Manipur Police, in collaboration with security forces, have arrested five militants associated with banned insurgent groups. These arrests are part of intensified intelligence-based operations aimed at dismantling extortion networks across the state.
In-Depth Analysis: Unraveling the Crackdown on Extortion in Manipur
Background: The Surge in Extortion Activities
Since the onset of ethnic violence in May 2023, Manipur has witnessed a disturbing increase in extortion activities. Underground groups and criminal gangs have been exploiting the volatile situation, demanding money under the guise of donations and levying illegal taxes on businesses, educational institutions, and even common citizens.
Formation of the Anti-Extortion Cell
In response to the escalating situation, the Manipur Police established an Anti-Extortion Cell led by the Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), with all Zonal IGPs as members. This specialized unit oversees anti-extortion operations throughout the state, coordinating with 15 specialized crack teams formed across districts to target extortion networks.
Recent Arrests: A Closer Look
Over the past two days, five militants linked to proscribed insurgent groups have been apprehended in different districts:
- Imphal East District: Two active members of the KYKL (SOREPA) group were arrested from Andro Khuman Hill. Both were found in possession of mobile phones and are currently under interrogation.
- Imphal East District: An active member of the banned outfit KCP (Apunba) was arrested from Khongman Khagembam Leirak. He was reportedly involved in extorting money from educational institutions in the Imphal area. A mobile phone and a two-wheeler were seized during the operation.
- Thoubal District: A member of RPF/PLA was apprehended from Yairipok Bazar. Authorities recovered a mobile phone with two SIM cards from him.
- Kakching District: A KCP (PWG) cadre was arrested from Wabagai Lamkhai Bazar. He was found with a mobile phone, two SIM cards, and an Aadhaar card.
Traffic Enforcement and Seizures
In a separate development, the Manipur Police Traffic Control Wing seized an Alto 800 LXI car near the Airport Gate along Tiddim Road. The vehicle was flagged “Not to Be Transacted” by the Public Vehicles Department, Kolkata, due to its link with an anti-motor theft case. The driver was arrested, and the vehicle was impounded.
From January to April 2025, traffic enforcement operations have resulted in the issuance of e-challans worth Rs 1.74 crore for various violations. On May 5 alone, police recovered 16 stolen vehicles in a special drive and removed tinted glasses from 69 vehicles.
âť“ FAQs
Q1: What measures have been taken by the Manipur Police to combat extortion?
The Manipur Police have established an Anti-Extortion Cell led by the ADGP (Law and Order), with all Zonal IGPs as members. Additionally, 15 specialized crack teams have been formed across districts to target extortion networks. www.ndtv.com+8Northeast Live+8My News Ne+8The Times of India+5My News Ne+5Northeast Live+5
Q2: How can citizens report extortion threats?
Citizens are encouraged to report any extortion threats to the police. Authorities have assured that all investigations will be conducted confidentially, preserving the identity of the complainants. The Economic Times+8India Today+8The Indian Express+8
Q3: What impact has extortion had on local businesses and communities?
Extortion activities have caused significant anxiety among residents and have disrupted economic activities. Businesses, educational institutions, and even common citizens have been targeted, leading to financial strain and a sense of insecurity. The Times of India+2My News Ne+2Northeast Live+2The Times of India+1My News Ne+1
Q4: What actions have been taken against illegal vehicles?
The Manipur Police Traffic Control Wing has conducted special drives resulting in the recovery of stolen vehicles and the removal of tinted glasses from vehicles. Additionally, vehicles linked to criminal activities have been seized, and the drivers arrested.
Q5: How has the community responded to the police crackdown on extortion?
Local business owners, community leaders, and residents have expressed cautious optimism that these decisive actions will lead to a safer and more secure environment. Community resilience and cooperation are seen as essential in combating extortion and restoring social harmony. Manipur Articles
